Fat Vs Bloated – Have You Gained Weight Or Are You Bloated? : The Hearty Soul

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For many of us, when we think of losing weight, the first body part we think of is our stomach. Many diet and exercise fads make claims that they will “burn belly fat” (or something along those lines) because they know most people are self-conscious about the size of their stomachs.

Stomach Bloating vs. Stomach Fat

What if I told you that what most people think is “stomach fat” isn’t really fat at all? Because that very well may be the case behind your seemingly large stomach. It is very likely that this is actually being caused by bloating, which can be a build up of air, gases or fluids in the stomach region.

This build up causes the stomach to enlarge in order to make space for this bloating, resulting in a larger appearance. However, just because it is larger does not mean you contain any more fat. In order for you to get rid of this bloating, you must make certain changes to your lifestyle.

The following 5-step test will determine whether you are experiencing bloating or not, and what you can do to get rid of it.

How Fast Do You Eat?

Scarfing down meals as quickly as possible is a sure way to cause bloating of the stomach. To start off, when you eat quickly your body is not able to send a signal to your brain letting it know that you’re full fast enough. This results in over-eating which can cause bloating simply by having a bunch of undigested food sit in your stomach.

Another reason eating quickly causes bloating is because you are inhaling large amounts of air every time you swallow. This means that you are pumping your stomach full of air as you eat, causing even further bloating. To prevent bloating during eating, simply slow down. Make sure to thoroughly chew your food rather than swallowing it.

How Much Dairy Do You Consume?

Almost all human beings are lactose intolerant to an extent. Although some are more sensitive than others, dairy products have been known to cause digestive issues in most people if heavily consumed. This can include, among other things, bloating. This is due to the fact that our bodies have a hard time digesting lactose, or milk sugar, which results in bloating.

Try reducing the amount of dairy in your diet (this includes milk, cheese, yogurt etc.) and see if it has an impact on your stomach size.

How Much Salt Do You Eat?

Aside from gas and air, another substance that can cause bloating is water. This build up of water in the stomach can result when one consumes a diet that is high in salt and sodium. High amounts of sodium in the diet can cause water retention in the stomach which can cause bloating caused by fluids.

Try cutting salt out of your diet as a seasoning and reduce the amount of high-sodium foods that you eat.

What Are Your Stress Levels Like?

Although we all know that bloating can cause stress, you may be surprised to hear that stress can cause bloating as well! In fact, the digestive system in general is commonly affected by stress. When stress hormones flood the body many internal changes occur. The body begins to favor processes that deal with stress rather others such as the digestive system.

Blood flow to the gut, intestinal permeability, mucus production and many other factors are heavily affected during states of stress, which often results in bloating. Try out some stress reducing exercises such as yoga or meditation and see if this has an effect on your stomach bloating.

Are You Intolerant To Gluten?

Although many people feel bloated after eating bread or other wheat-based foods, individuals with an intolerance to gluten, a mixture of proteins found inside wheat, can experience extreme bloating after eating it. People with a gluten intolerance have a hard time digesting gluten, which causes a build up of gas and the resulting bloating.

Try avoiding wheat based foods, such as bread, pasta, cereal etc. and see if this has an impact on your stomach size.

Enter Digestive Enzymes

Digestive enzymes play a crucial role in breaking down the food we eat into nutrients our bodies can absorb and use. For many people, especially those with digestive issues, taking digestive enzyme supplements can significantly improve their overall well-being and comfort. One of the primary benefits of digestive enzymes is their ability to prevent bloating, a common and often uncomfortable problem.

Bloating occurs when the digestive system struggles to break down food properly. This can lead to gas buildup, stomach distension, and discomfort. Digestive enzymes help alleviate these issues by ensuring food is efficiently broken down, reducing the chances of gas formation and bloating. For instance, enzymes like amylase break down carbohydrates, protease handles proteins, and lipase deals with fats. By aiding in the complete digestion of these macronutrients, digestive enzymes prevent the undigested food particles that often cause bloating.

Moreover, taking digestive enzyme supplements can enhance nutrient absorption. When food is thoroughly broken down, vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients are more readily available for absorption in the intestines. This not only helps in preventing bloating but also ensures your body gets the maximum benefit from the food you eat, supporting overall health and energy levels.

For individuals with specific digestive disorders like lactose intolerance, digestive enzymes can be particularly beneficial. Lactase, an enzyme that breaks down lactose, can prevent the bloating and discomfort associated with dairy consumption in lactose-intolerant individuals. Similarly, people with conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or those who have undergone gastrointestinal surgery may find relief with enzyme supplements.

Investing in digestive enzymes can transform your digestive health, providing immediate relief from bloating and enhancing your overall nutritional status. Imagine enjoying meals without the worry of discomfort or bloating afterward. With digestive enzymes, this can be your reality. Don’t let digestive issues hold you back; try digestive enzyme supplements today and experience the difference they can make in your life. Your digestive system will thank you!