Some foods and drinks can have you feeling so uncomfortably bloated, it’s painful doing things like sitting and breathing.
If you’re commonly gassy or bloated, here are a few culprits to keep an eye on in your everyday diet:
Chewing gum
Chewing gum may seem like a harmless habit, but they actually lead to bloat despite not ingesting anything.
Sugarless gums typically contain sorbitol, a sugar alcohol known for causing bloating and other gastrointestinal distress. Sorbitol takes a relatively long time to digest, and because it acts as prime real estate for the fermentation of bacteria, it leads to feelings of bloating and flatulence.
Nutrition bars
Most people aren’t aware that several nutrition bars include protein isolate derived from soybeans—something many people find just as gas-inducing as the musical fruit.
Like other beans, soy contains oligosaccharides, sugar molecules that the body can’t break down entirely. With nowhere to go, these oligosaccharides loiter in the digestive tract, where they ferment, causing gas and stomach bloat.
Almond milk
Almond milk is a better option than cow’s milk for those with lactose sensitivity, which is why it’s recommended as a great base for smoothies.
However, you’ll want to stay away from brands that use carrageenan. Derived from seaweed, carrageenan has been linked to ulcers, inflammation, and other gastrointestinal problems. So if you notice bloating and pain post-almond milk, considering changing brands.
Related: The best foods for a flat stomach
Dried fruit
Nature’s candy, dried fruit can be a great source of nutrients and fiber.
But it can also be a source of gas for those who suffer from fructose malabsorption. This condition happens when the body has difficulty absorbing natural sugar. Dried fruits are particularly high in fructose, or these natural sugars; fresh stone fruits, citrus fruits, and berries are safer options for those with sensitivity.
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