7 Foods & Bevs to Consume Right Now if You Want to Stop Feeling Bloated & Constipated

I’ve had lifelong constipation problems up until very recently, when I managed to get things going. Although there are a lot of things I did to improve my digestive health that are long term, I swear by these 7 foods & drinks to provide more rapid relief:

1. Lemon Water:

- Hydration: Lemon water provides essential hydration, which is crucial for maintaining proper digestion and bowel function. Adequate hydration softens stools and promotes regular bowel movements.

- Citric Acid: The citric acid in lemon water stimulates the production of gastric juices, including stomach acid and bile, which aids in the breakdown of food. This can help improve digestion and alleviate bloating.

- Antioxidants: Lemons are rich in antioxidants, such as vitamin C and flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory properties. Reduced inflammation in the digestive tract can alleviate discomfort associated with bloating and constipation.

2. Kiwi:

- Enzymes: Kiwis contain the enzyme actinidin, which aids in protein digestion. This enzyme helps break down proteins in the digestive tract, promoting efficient digestion and reducing the likelihood of bloating and constipation.

- Fiber: Kiwis are high in dietary fiber, including soluble fiber, which absorbs water and adds bulk to stools. Insoluble fiber adds further bulk and helps move waste through the digestive tract, promoting regular bowel movements.

3. Cantaloupe:

- Fiber: Cantaloupe contains both soluble and insoluble fiber, which adds bulk to stools and promotes bowel regularity. Soluble fiber absorbs water, softening stools, while insoluble fiber provides bulk and helps move waste through the digestive tract.

- Water Content: Cantaloupe has a high water content, contributing to hydration and softening of stools. Hydration is essential for maintaining digestive health and preventing constipation.

4. Whole Oranges (with the Peel):

- Fiber: Oranges, particularly when consumed with the peel, are a good source of dietary fiber, including soluble fiber like pectin. Fiber adds bulk to stools, promotes bowel movements, and helps alleviate constipation.

- Flavonoids: Oranges contain flavonoids with anti-inflammatory properties, which can reduce inflammation in the digestive tract and alleviate discomfort associated with bloating.

5. Papaya:

- Enzymes: Papaya contains enzymes such as papain and chymopapain, which aid in protein digestion and promote efficient breakdown of food. These enzymes help reduce bloating and discomfort by supporting optimal digestion.

- Fiber: Papaya is rich in dietary fiber, which adds bulk to stools and promotes regular bowel movements. Fiber also helps maintain bowel health and prevents constipation.

6. Chia Seeds:

- Fiber: Chia seeds are an excellent source of soluble fiber, which absorbs water and forms a gel-like substance in the digestive tract. This gel softens stools, adds bulk, and promotes bowel regularity.

- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Chia seeds contain omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, alleviating bloating and discomfort.

7. Ginger Tea:

- Gingerols and Shogaols: Ginger contains bioactive compounds such as gingerols and shogaols, which have anti-inflammatory and digestive properties. These compounds help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract and stimulate digestion, alleviating bloating and discomfort.

- Muscle Relaxation: Ginger may help relax the muscles of the digestive tract, reducing spasms and cramping associated with bloating. This muscle relaxation promotes smoother bowel movements and relieves constipation.

By addressing hydration, providing essential nutrients, supporting digestion with enzymes and fiber, and reducing inflammation and muscle spasms, these foods and beverages can effectively alleviate bloating and constipation and promote overall digestive health.

If you try these foods, PLEASE tag me on IG (@hiwaaaaaaaa) so I can see!

Also, I have some great recipes using these ingredients, including a Whipped Miso-Cacao Chia Pudding, and Raw Orange Creamsicle Donut Holes. let me know if you want these recipes!