First Office Hours Question And it’s the one we’ve been waiting for

Q: I eat so clean and healthy, why am I always bloated?

-Julie

I get this question all-da-time and unfortunately, there's no clear cut answer that applies to everyone because bloating (as with all signs and symptoms) is personal and specific.  But here are FOUR of the most common causes I see…

1. Your diet might be "textbook" healthy, but it's not healthy for YOU-

Broccoli, beans, tomatoes, + garlic are all “healthy", but if your body struggles to digest fibers, fermentable carbohydrates, or histamines these foods can cause gas and bloating as they move through your GI Tract.  Healthy is not universal →  it's personal.

2. The bacteria in your gut is out of balance-

When certain gut bacteria overgrow, they produce more gas than your body can comfortably handle. This excess gas creates pressure.  Pressure creates bloating.  The issue might not be the food.  It might be the balance of bacteria digesting it.

3. You're not eating enough (Ladies, this one is for you )

When you're not eating enough, your body slows digestion to conserve energy, and food moves more slowly through your gut, which increases fermentation and gas. So, it's that slowed digestion that leaves you feeling bloated…Sometimes the fix isn't cutting back, it's eating properly for you!
4.  You're consuming food while in constant motion.

Take a bite + walk.  Take a bite + scroll. Take a bite + run out the door. Take a bite + clean. You're taking names and getting it done, but all that extra movement while you eat is taking a toll on your digestion and how your body is absorbing nutrients. Try This: Plate your food → Bring it to a table →  Sit → Take a breath →  Eat.