How to feel less bloated in a heatwave

Two big reasons for feeling bloated during hot weather are:

- Dehydration - slowing movement of food through your digestive tract, so foods stay in there undigested for longer causing abdominal distention and bloating

- Blood flow and energy needed for effective digestion of foods are diverted away from your gut to the skin and other vital areas within your body to help maintain your body temp and keep you cool

Ways to prevent or reduce bloating at this time and feel more energised are:

- stay well hydrated - drink frequently, don’t leave big gaps between drinks and sip water with your meals and snacks. If you are active, increase your fluid intake even more so.

- eat smaller meals and snacks to reduce the effort and energy needed to digest a big meal at this more sluggish prone time

- eat slowly to prevent overwhelming your digestive system with too much food in one go

- eat later in the day when it’s cooler. Think about how they do things in the Mediterranean - eating later and slowly over a longer period of time

- take time to fully rest as you digest your foods

- reduce caffeine intake as this can act as a diuretic if consumed often - more than 3 cups a day. Drinking less than this can help you to stay hydrated.

- avoid heavy processed foods that can put greater demand on your body and energy system as it is works to manage your body temp and keep you cool.

If you live with IBS you might be more at risk. Ensure to take extra care.

I hope these tips help.

Carla ❤️