Foods for a flat stomach

Swelling of the digestive system is a common ailment associated with large meals, carbonated beverages, or digestive problems. However, there are certain foods that can help avoid abdominal bloating and discomfort, and instead maintain a flat stomach.

What foods help maintain a flat stomach?

The best way to optimise our digestion is to consume food rich in fibre and to drink plenty of water. If we do this our digestive tract will run more efficiently and better absorb nutrients with minimum discomfort.

Having a flat stomach is often a sign of well-being. It is achieved through positive lifestyle habits, notably daily exercise, plentiful rest, and a healthy diet.

Cherries, blueberries, and cranberries

These fruits prevent the body from retaining liquids rich in flavonoids. Their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties help to relieve the burden on the digestive system, which is a common cause of bloating and gastric discomfort.

Turmeric

Turmeric is known as the natural ibuprofen. It has been used for hundreds of years to treat constipation and irritation of the digestive tract. It also improves liver function and reduces toxicity in the body.

Banana

This fruit has incredible health properties. Its high potassium content helps reduce swelling in the abdomen caused by fluid retention. To further enhance the beneficial effects of bananas, it is recommended one reduce the consumption of salt.

Green tea

Both as herbal drink and in the form of capsules, this millenary plant is rich in antioxidants. This type of tea is far better at reducing abdominal swelling than other popular alternatives such as coffee.

Lactose-free dairy

Many people are unable to process lactose efficiently, resulting in abdominal inflammation. Lactose-free dairy products prevent this from happening, while still preserving milk’s beneficial good bacteria which helps regulate the digestive system.

Flaxseed

Flaxseed (also known as linseed) is so beneficial it is sometimes referred to as a “wonder food”. It is very rich in fibre, antioxidants, and essential omega-3 fatty acids. It is great for improving digestion and reducing bloating.

Avocado

Avocado is a fruit rich in healthy unsaturated fats and therefore great for any slimming diet. Other foods like nuts and olive oil (in adequate amounts) are also rich in healthy unsaturated fats and thus help maintain a flat stomach.

What other habits help?

Digestion involves many factors. It’s not just what we eat, but also how we eat, that helps our digestive system to run better:

1. Chewing slowly and calmly greatly helps in generating less gas.
2. A good nap after a meal is always a good idea for improving digestion, but it is also advisable to rest for 15 minutes between the meal and the nap.
3. Food typically goes down better when accompanied by liquid. However, it is also recommended that we refrain from drinking too much, and that liquids not be gaseous. This way, a lighter digestion with less bloating may be obtained.
4. Food products that are highly processed, heavily fried, or rich in industrial sugars, cause poor digestion and lots of discomfort. Avoid them!