Regardless of where you are in life, bloat is never fun. And it’s a sign that something is off in the body. There are several reasons that bloating occurs, but I’m just going to focus on hormonal bloating.
First things first, your uterus expands when you menstruate. There is nothing wrong with you, this is a natural and normal part of your cycle and your body’s natural response to this portion of your cycle. This is your body protecting you. 🤍
Moving forward, one thing that causes hormonal bloating is high estrogen and water retention. When estrogen spikes and progesterone drops, your body holds onto liquids. Which is why simply drinking something could make you feel suddenly full.
Ways to relieve yourself naturally are by consuming diuretics. Things like cilantro, apple cider vinegar or lemon in your water, ginger, and parsley. 🍎 These things allow you to release that bloat. This release expels through peeing, so make sure that if you’re adding diuretics to aid water retention, you’re near a restroom.
Another reason you may be experiencing hormonal bloat is due to your hormones affecting your digestive system. This could manifest as gas or the sensation of bloat.
In this case, focusing on gut health is important and feeding the good bacteria to relieve the pain or discomfort you’re experiencing. Try sipping bone broth, drinking teas like fennel, turmeric, and ginger, eating probiotics, and again, diuretics.
You can also apply peppermint or cilantro oil to your abdomen. I do this in the evenings if I'm feeling bloated. I suggest using a carrier oil with essential oils and rubbing your tummy clockwise. 🍵🌿🚶♀️🌄🌼
For prevention make sure you’re getting in fiber, probiotics, and water consistently. Fiber releases excess estrogen which causes many more pms symptoms other than bloating.
Things to avoid if you’re experiencing bloat: sugar, alcohol, coffee, inflammatories, gassy foods, and processed foods.
If you’re craving something…
Chocolatey : dates and dark chocolate with nut butter
Sweet: fruit or berries with local raw honey
Coffee: cacao, mushroom coffee, chai, or chicory
If you’re out with your friends for drinks, order a soda water with bitters and lime, or of course a mocktail.
xoxo, Soph
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