One of the very common menopause symptoms – over two-thirds of menopausal women experience it – is bloating in the intestinal tract due to the production of gas. While gas and bloating are very common symptoms of menopause, it’s not certain whether this is due to hormonal action or simply the normal processes of aging. Some researchers see a relationship to decreasing hormone production, while others think it has to do with dietary changes around the time of menopause. The recommended menopause diet is high in grains, vegetables, dairy products, legumes and soya proteins – all of which are gas-producing substances!
Menopause Symptoms
Lactose intolerance, an inability to digest significant amounts of lactose, the predominant sugar in milk, is another very common problem that increases with age. This is also associated with gas and bloating and can be alleviated by drinking lactose-free milk or avoiding dairy products altogether. Severely lactose-intolerant women need to ensure that they get sufficient calcium from other sources.
While it is true that proteins and fats cause little gas, and soya products, fiber- and carbohydrate-rich foods do, it is still possible to maintain a healthy diet by following the suggestions above.
Ways To Prevent Gas and Bloating
When eating gassy foods (see chart), try taking a digestive aid to eliminate gas. These contain enzymes that break down problem complex sugars that cause gas.
Gas-reducing agents that contain simethicone may also be helpful. They do not eliminate gas production but break up already existing gas bubbles in the stomach.
Give up carbonated beverages like fizzy drinks and beer If you choose to drink them, let them go flat first.
Include more ginger in your diet. This herb relieves pain and can ease digestive upset.
Try to stay relaxed; stress can worsen any bloating.
Eat three to five small meals per day Eating large quantities of food at a single meal can elevate your insulin level and make bloating worse.
Drink plenty of water to clear the body of toxins.
Don’t go to bed on a full stomach; leave at least three hours between your last meal and bedtime.
