Rock the Bloat

A bloated belly can be tough to battle, especially during your period. Read on to learn about the ABCs of bloating and what you can do to stop the swelling

A swollen belly can be caused by a number of factors—gas, excess fluid, or your menstrual cycle. And while having a larger-than-usual tummy can be bad enough as it is, bloating due to your period can bring about a feeling of heaviness, general malaise or lethargy, too. More often than not, the feelings that come with bloating are actually more bothersome than the actual bloating itself.

As with any physical and emotional change that accompanies your period, bloating is due to the ever-changing levels your hormones go through during your cycle. Your brain begins to perceive things differently, leaving you feeling sore and tired.

Fortunately, there are a myriad of ways to tame your tummy problems every time your period approaches. Most remedies are easy to follow and can be made part and parcel of a healthy lifestyle. The most important thing is to keep a positive attitude when you feel down about bloating—remember that it goes away once your period is over.

Sweat It Out

It's difficult to battle feeling slovenly and lazy each time you're bloated, but one of the most effective ways to beat the bloat is to work up a sweat. Exercise, even for just 30 minutes each day, can get your blood pumping and instantly improve your mood (endorphins, baby!). Getting a whiff of fresh air by walking around your block or through breathing exercises during a yoga class can help maintain a healthy balance between mind and body, leaving you less worried about your bulge.

Watch Your Diet

Loading up on sugary, salty and fatty foods won't help you one bit when you're fighting to keep the bloating away. PMS might make you grab for a half-pound burger or an 18 oz. chocolate shake, but these foods will leave you crashing, burning and bloating even before your period comes. High fiber foods which move through your system more rapidly than fat, salt and refined sugar, can help reduce bloating and prevent constipation. Make sure to match your meals and snacks with lots of water. Dehydration is one sure way of bloating, so drinking more than your fill each day will assure that you're keeping the bulge down to a minimum.

Slow and Steady Wins the Race

Even during off-period days, eating slowly can help reduce bloating. Chewing gum, drinking through straws and eating at breakneck speed can all contribute to introducing more air into your passageways, leaving you with that not-so-pleasant gassy feeling. The last thing you need during a period bloatfest is more air down in your tummy. It pays to manage your mouthfuls wisely, not talking while you're eating, and chewing with your mouth closed—proving that manners do count!

Doc Knows Best

Bloating is a normal symptom of your period, but if it seems to be happening more often than usual, or causes you to feel extremely uncomfortable, it's best to see a doctor.