Period FAQs

what helps with period bloating

by Helga Rodriguez Published 2 years ago Updated 1 year ago
image

Other Period Bloating Remedies at Home

  • Drink peppermint tea. Peppermint has a natural pain relief and diuretic properties that can help in reducing bloating. ...
  • Apple cider vinegar. Apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid which balances hydrochloric acid that your stomach makes. ...
  • Primrose oil. ...
  • Heating pad. ...

Here are some ways to reduce period bloating:
  • follow a low-sodium diet, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein.
  • drink lots of water.
  • skip caffeine and alcohol.
  • limit processed foods.
  • exercise regularly.
  • take a diuretic.
  • talk to your doctor about whether birth control pills may help.

Full Answer

What can I take to reduce period bloating?

How can you treat and prevent period bloating?

  1. Eat the right foods. You should avoid eating too much salt. ...
  2. Drink lots of water. Make sure you drink plenty of water on the days leading up to your period. ...
  3. Skip alcohol and caffeine. Experts believe that both alcohol and caffeine contribute to bloating and other symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
  4. Exercise regularly. ...
  5. Consider medication. ...

What alternative remedies can stop bloating?

Some simple changes can make a big difference:

  • Take the time to enjoy a meal. ...
  • Avoiding carbonated beverages, since they increase the amount of air in the stomach.
  • Reducing salt intake can reduce bloating. ...
  • Adding high-fiber foods slowly. ...
  • Avoiding any foods that trigger sensitivities, like dairy products or gluten, which can cause constipation and irritable bowel syndrome.

Does period bloating cause weight gain?

Period-related weight gain is caused by hormonal fluctuations. It may be the result of water retention, overeating, sugar cravings, and skipping workouts due to cramps. Period bloating and gastrointestinal issues might also create the sensation of weight gain. To ease water retention, stay hydrated and reduce salt intake.

What foods help with bloating?

Foods to Enjoy That Get Rid of Bloating and Gas

  1. Celery. Celery has an extremely high water content—about 95%—and is also high in potassium, which can help control the water retention associated with bloating.
  2. Bananas. When most people hear “potassium,” they think of bananas. ...
  3. Ginger. Ginger is another one of the many foods that reduce gas. ...
  4. Spinach. ...
  5. Cucumber. ...

image

Why am I so bloated during my period?

As well as causing menstrual bleeding, research suggests that changes in progesterone and estrogen levels cause the body to retain more water and salt. The body's cells become swollen with water, causing the feeling of bloating.

What stops bloating during period?

Switching up the foods you eat, like swapping in more potassium-filled foods and nixing the caffeine for a few days, can do some serious remedying to your bloated belly. You can also consider even simpler fixes, like getting more sleep or cooking at home more often.

How long does period bloating last?

How Long Does Period Bloating Last? Period bloating generally appears around one to two weeks before your period or also only a couple of days before. Your body supposedly retains the most water on the first day of your period, so the situation should calm down during your period or at least a few days after.

How much weight do you gain during period?

It's normal to gain about three to five pounds during your period. Generally, it will go away a few days after your period starts. Period-related weight gain is caused by hormonal fluctuations. It may be the result of water retention, overeating, sugar cravings, and skipping workouts due to cramps.

How do you Debloat in 5 minutes?

6:049:25Reduce Bloating Quickly | 5 MIN FAST Walk | growwithjo - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipOkay so the first way that we can decrease blow aside from exercise is to start drinking more waterMoreOkay so the first way that we can decrease blow aside from exercise is to start drinking more water when you drink more water your body renews itself and your digestion.

What day are you most bloated on your period?

Most women who menstruate experience symptoms such as bloating one to two days before the start of their periods. Others regularly experience symptoms during the five days before their periods that interfere with some of their normal activities.

Does ibuprofen help with period bloating?

Ibuprofen and naproxen (found in brands like Aleve and Midol) block the chemicals that cause inflammation, and in turn, bloating, says Kelly Roy, MD, an ob-gyn in Phoenix. "A couple days before your period, take 200 to 400 mg every 6 to 8 hours," she says.

How do you Debloat overnight?

If you're looking for a quick cure to beat the bloat and wake up feeling great, here are nine overnight hacks that should help.Eat A High-Potassium Snack Before Bed. Shutterstock. ... Eat Slowly. ... Massage Your Belly. ... Hydrate With More Than Just Water. ... Drink Ginger Tea. ... Relax. ... Don't Eat Two Hours Before Bed.

How to de-bloat during period?

The good news: There are some seriously easy steps you can take to de-bloat during your period. Switching up the foods you eat, like swapping in more potassium-filled foods and nixing the caffeine for a few days, can do some serious remedying to your bloated belly.

Why does period bloating happen in the first place?

You can thank fluctuations in estrogen levels and a sharp drop in progesterone right before your period. "When estrogen levels are higher, our bodies tend to retain water," says Meggie Smith, MD, an obstetrician-gynecologist and reproductive endocrinology and infertility fellow at the University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine.

How long does it take for bloating to start?

Basically, it's a bloating double-whammy. Bloating usually starts to kick in about one to two days before the start of a woman's period, according to the Mayo Clinic. But some women experience symptoms up to five days beforehand, often interfering with normal activities.

How many women experience bloating during their period?

Because the truth is: An estimated 70 percent of women experience bloating during their period, according to Diana Bitner, MD, a Michigan-based ob-gyn.

What is the best medicine for bloating?

Ibuprofen and Naprosyn (found in brands like Aleve and Midol) block the chemicals that cause inflammation, and in turn, bloating, says Kelly Roy, MD, an ob-gyn in Phoenix. “A couple days before your period, take 200 to 400 milligrams every six to eight hours,” she says.

What foods can you eat to keep your body from puffing up?

Pick protein- and potassium-rich foods. Fill your plate with ingredients that won’t cause you to puff up. “ High-potassium foods like bananas, cantaloupe, tomatoes, and asparagus help promote a good balance of fluids,” says Isabel Smith, RD, a New York City-based dietitian and fitness expert.

When does bloating start?

Bloating usually starts to kick in about one to two days before the start of a woman's period.

Symptoms

Period bloating is very common. In fact, over 90% of people who menstruate report experiencing symptoms like bloating before or during their periods. 3 PMS symptoms can begin any time after your first menstrual period, but usually by your early 20s. Some women experience more severe symptoms in the late reproductive years.

Tips to Reduce Bloating

Fortunately, there are steps that you can take to reduce period bloating, which include: 3

Why Bloating Happens

When it comes to just about any period symptom, you can blame it on the hormones. Changing hormone levels leads to a variety of changes in the body. Each month that you do not become pregnant, your body’s estrogen and progesterone levels fall significantly. This rapid decline in hormones can lead to water retention and bloating.

Risk Factors

Most people who menstruate experience symptoms around their periods. The following risk factors can increase your chances of period bloating: 1

Home Remedies

If you have tried to improve period bloating with lifestyle changes and are still uncomfortable, you may be considering a home remedy. It’s important to note that you should always talk with your healthcare provider before beginning a new dietary supplement. Home remedies that may improve period bloating include:

When to See a Healthcare Provider

If period bloating has become so severe that lifestyle changes do not help and you are unable to keep up with your daily activities, talk with your healthcare provider or gynecologist. They will likely ask you to keep a symptom diary to understand when the bloating starts and what (if anything) helps it.

Summary

Period bloating is a condition that occurs before or during your period. It causes a distended belly and an uncomfortable, tight feeling. Period bloating is believed to be caused by the hormone changes that take place each month during your period.

How to stop bloating during period?

Avoiding foods high in salt and refined carbohydrates may help relieve period bloating. There are many lifestyle changes that a woman can make that may help to reduce water retention. In turn, these changes may help relieve the symptoms of period bloating. 1. Avoid salty foods.

What foods help with period bloating?

Foods that act as natural diuretics include: asparagus. pineapples. peaches. cucumber. leeks. ginger.

What does it mean when you feel bloated before your period?

It may be accompanied by stomach cramps and backaches. Period bloating is when a woman feels her abdomen is heavy and swollen just before and at the start of her period. Bloating is also one of several premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms that can occur 1-2 weeks before a woman’s period.

What hormones cause a woman to bleed?

About a week before a woman’s period starts, levels of the hormone progesterone fall. Reduced levels of progesterone cause the uterus to shed its lining, which is what causes menstrual bleeding.

When do women experience bloating?

Many women experience bloating before and at the start of their period. Can certain lifestyle changes offer some relief?

Does bloating go away after a period?

However, if period bloating affects a woman’s daily life, it is a good idea for her to speak to her doctor. If bloating does not go away after a period, it is also a good idea to talk to a doctor.

Does potassium help with period bloating?

Research shows potassium decreases sodium levels and increases urine production. In this way, potassium may help reduce water retention and improve period bloating.

How to not bloat during your period?

The way you eat can be the key to less bloat leading up to and during your period. Although you might crave chips, cake, and other treats, refined processed carbs might not be your best bet as they tend to increase bloating rather than decrease it. “Avoid processed sugar, hydrogenated oils, and hard to digest gains like gluten,” says Summerford. “Eat plenty of leafy greens and broccoli to eliminate estrogens and allow for bowel movements, as the luteal phase is progesterone dominant which can cause constipation in some women.”

How to get rid of bloat and water retention?

“Studies show that potassium increases urine production, which helps reduce water retention by excreting it through urination. Potassium also reduces the body’s level of sodium,” says Dr. Don Grant of The Independent Pharmacy.

What causes bloat in women?

First things first, where does this bloat come from? According to Dr. Anna Cabeca, triple board-certified Emory University-trained physician, hormones like estrogen and progesterone fluctuate during this time, resulting in up to 5-10 extra pounds of fluid and sodium. Dr. Ashley Margeson, board-certified naturopathic doctor with a strong focus on women’s health, hormonal regulation, and health optimization, also adds that inflammatory molecules called prostaglandins are another large factor, which aren’t easy to drop but manageable nonetheless.

How to cure PMS?

Drink more water. Drinking more water might sound counterintuitive, but it’s an “all-around PMS wonder drug,” and consuming it is critical at every stage of your cycle, says Hamawy. “Water nourishes and flushes, eases constipation and pain, and helps with breakouts too.”.

How long before your period should you drink alkaline water?

She recommends making these changes a week or so before your period. According to Dr. Ralph E. Holsworth, D.O., director of clinical and scientific research at Essentia Water, ionized, alkaline water can also help to increase hydration, stabilize your pH, and reduce bloat.

What is the best anti-inflammatory for bloating?

According to Yeral Patel, MD, a physician located in Newport Beach, CA, turmeric and omega-3 fish oil are two of the most potent and safest anti-inflammatory supplements that help beat bloat.

Does estrogen cause bloating?

“This leads to estrogen dominance, a condition in which you have insufficient progesterone to balance the effects of estrogen in your body. There are numerous symptoms as a result, including [more] bloating and gas.”

What is the best supplement for bloating?

Lactase supplements help you digest the sugar lactose in dairy products. Natural Remedies. If you prefer herbal remedies for health problems, peppermint oil and peppermint tea are shown to help reduce bloating. When to See A Doctor.

How to stop bloating from eating too fast?

Eating Slowly. Eating too quickly causes you to swallow more air, which can lead to gas and bloating. Eating slowly can help reduce bloating. Additionally, slowing your eating can make you feel full, faster, helping you avoid overeating, which can lead to bloating.

How do antacids help with bloating?

A ntacids can reduce bloating by allowing gas to pass more easily through your digestive tract. Do note, however, that antacids are only effective for bloating caused by food. Researchers have found that certain antidepressants can affect the way your body reacts to gas, keeping it from overreacting to its presence.

What causes bloating in the stomach?

Many gastrointestinal (GI) disorders can be responsible for bloating, including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), ulcerative colitis, constipation, and air swallowing. One study showed that 96% of people with IBS experience bloating.

What foods cause bloating?

Foods that commonly cause bloating are wheat, beans, lentils, garlic, onions, and asparagus. Milk and dairy foods can also cause bloating, as some people have a hard time digesting a sugar they contain called lactose. Antacids. A ntacids can reduce bloating by allowing gas to pass more easily through your digestive tract.

Why does my stomach feel like it's sticking out?

Bloating occurs when your abdomen enlarges and feels full and tight. Your stomach may even look like it’s sticking out. Bloating is a common occurrence for many people. Somewhere between 10% and 30% of people experience bloating. Many conditions can cause bloating, often making it difficult to determine its cause. Common reasons for bloating include:

Why do I get bloated when I eat?

Eating too much fiber is one of the most common reasons for bloating. Fiber is an essential part of a healthy diet, but it can cause a lot of gas in your digestive system because your body cannot digest it. The key with fiber is to eat it in moderation. Foods high in fiber include beans, lentils, broccoli, whole wheat, apples, berries, and quinoa.

How to stop bloating in the abdomen?

Here’s our process. Most people experience bloating at some point. Exercises, supplements, and massages can all help to reduce bloating quickly, and simple lifestyle changes can prevent it from reoccurring. Abdominal bloating is when the abdomen feels full and tight.

Why does my belly feel bloated?

An excess of sodium causes the body to retain water. This can cause a swollen and bloated feeling in the belly and other areas of the body, such as the hands and feet.

Why does my abdomen swell?

Although it is not common, bloating and swelling of the abdomen can signify a severe medical condition. Liver disease, inflammatory bowel disease, heart failure, kidney problems, and some types of cancer can cause bloating.

How does peppermint help with gas?

Peppermint works by relaxing the intestinal muscles, which allows gas and stool to move along more effectively. People should always follow the instructions on the packet. Anyone who is prone to heartburn may need to avoid peppermint.

What is the best way to get rid of gas?

Simethicone pills and liquid are anti-gas medications that can help to move excess air out of the digestive tract. It is essential to always take medication according to the instructions on the label.

Why does my stomach feel tight?

Abdominal bloating is when the abdomen feels full and tight. It commonly occurs due to a buildup of gas somewhere in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Bloating causes the belly to look larger than usual, and it may also feel tender or painful. Fluid retention in the body can also lead to bloating.

How to get rid of gas and poop?

Getting the bowels to move is especially important if a person is feeling constipated. A walk around the block can provide fast relief from gas pressure.

What is the best way to combat bloating?

Enjoying a bowl of oatmeal in the morning can be an easy and effective way to battle bloating.

What is the best way to keep fluids from accumulating?

Green tea is a great option to help you stay hydrated and prevent fluid retention.

Does papain help with bloating?

It likewise contains an enzyme called papain, which helps your body break down amino acids. This encourages healthy digestion and may help keep bloating at bay ( 28 ).

Does ginger help with stomach emptying?

For example, some research shows that ginger could speed stomach emptying to prevent bloating and feelings of fullness ( 20, 21 ).

Is yogurt good for your gut?

Yogurt is packed with probiotics, a beneficial type of bacteria that plays a key role in gut health.

Does eating and drinking help with bloating?

Plus, what you eat and drink can significantly affect bloating and other digestive issues. Fortunately, many ingredients have been shown to promote regularity, prevent fluid retention, and enhance gut health, all of which can help keep bloating at bay. Here are 20 foods and drinks that can help with bloating. Share on Pinterest.

image
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9