travel bloat is real and it is extremely common, I’m sure we have all suffered in silence at one time or another!
The pressure in the cabin when you fly causes gas in your stomach, making it expand and feel uncomfortable. Here are a few things to try next time you fly that may just banish the bloat.
Make sure you stay hydrated, dehydration can cause bloating. Try tracking the amount of water you are consuming. If you need a physical reminder try an app like WaterLama or Water Reminder.
Don’t be tempted to chew gum during take off and landing, it may help with the pain of ear popping but chewing gum makes you swallow a lot of air contributing to the bloat.
As mentioned in a previous blog Carol has ditched the carbonated drinks when flying and she has noticed that she doesn’t get as bloated. Caffeine can have the same effect so avoid anything caffeinated. Tomato juice is another beverage to avoid due to its sodium content.
Ensuring that you have a healthy digestive system is always recommended but especially before you travel. Carol likes to increase her intake of probiotic rich food like kimchi and sauerkraut about a month before she travels as well as drinking kombucha to boost gut health and immunity. You could also try taking a probiotic supplement.
Often we are in a hurry at the airport and are looking for a quick fix when hungry. This leads us to choosing overly processed foods, containing high levels of salt, sugar and additives all of which add to the bloat. Just because we are offered salty nuts or pretzels doesn’t mean we have to eat them! There are so many bloat free options to take with you so you aren’t relying on airport food, although there are definitely some good options now at most airports. Take bananas, carrots, celery, raw nuts or raw nut butter packets. Be mindful of bringing anything smelly that may offend the rest of the cabin!
Here’s to a more comfortable flight!