For Immediate Release
June 13, 2007
Contact: Donna Sellmann
(732) 530-2282
dsellmann@meridianhealth.com

RIVERVIEW EXPERTS OFFER TIPS TO BEAT BLOATING

Red Bank, NJ - Scores of people are in the midst of a springtime shape up, getting ready for the summer season and donning bathing suits and sundresses. Despite best efforts, there are some days when clothing that used to be a perfect fit is less than perfect because of a bloated stomach.

For many women, bloating is often associated with unpleasant or uncomfortable symptoms during their menstrual cycle. But truth be told, bloating can occur due to a variety of factors, such as food, drink and eating habits. The bloating challenge can occur all year long, but the summer months can seem particularly unforgiving. The good news is that by understanding why bloating occurs and by following a few simple tips, you can successfully prevent bloating during the warmer months and all year round.

According to Suzanne Seniscalchi, MS, RD, a Masters trained Registered Dietitian at Riverview Medical Center, "Remaining well hydrated is a basic and essential component to help reduce the occurrence of bloating and is a key factor for overall good health." When the mercury rises, it?s time to increase fluid intake, notes Seniscalchi. Whether you're casually gardening or lying at the beach, or doing something more strenuous like exercising or playing sports, keep water with you during all outside activities. And who says water has to be boring. Try adding lemon or orange slices to your water to provide more flavor without adding extra calories. Additionally, water ices and frozen drinks can help quench your thirst. (As tempting as a tropical cocktail may be, it's wise to avoid drinking alcoholic beverages during the heat of the day, as they can lead to dehydration.)

Bloating, which is a fullness or swelling in the abdomen, often occurs after meals. Seniscalchi shares some of the most common causes and what you can do to beat the bloat!

-Overeating
You can avoid overeating by eating slowly and stop eating when you feel slightly full. It?s the perfect time to enjoy seasonal produce, so gradually increase your intake of fruits and veggies during the summer.

-Sudden increase in fiber intake
Fiber is the indigestible portion of food, which creates a feeling of fullness. Fiber is an important part of your diet, but try to limit quantities of foods such as oat bran, beans, peas, and fruits, which have high fiber content.

-Eating too much fatty foods
Fatty foods can delay stomach emptying and cause bloating and discomfort. Pass on high fat foods such as ribs, hotdogs double cheeseburgers, and steak. Choose lower fat items such as grilled chicken, shrimp, and plain hamburgers.

-Air swallowing
Bloating is largely caused by intestinal gas, which can result from eating gassy foods or swallowing air. You usually don?t even realize you are swallowing air while eating. To avoid swallowing air, slow down when eating, don't slurp drinks, and don't talk while chewing. You may also try to avoid chewing gum, hard candy, and drinking through straws.

-Carbonated beverages
Soda and carbonated drinks introduce gas into your system, which can contribute to bloating. If you're looking to quench your thirst, stick with water and plenty of it.

-Lactose intolerance
Lactose intolerance is a condition caused by a lack of an enzyme called lactase, which, in turn, causes the body to be unable to digest lactose, a sugar found in milk products. If you suspect that you are lactose intolerant, limit your intake of dairy products. Be sure to read food labels carefully, and look for milk and lactose contents, as well as whey, curds, milk by-products and dry milk solids.

-Excessive salt intake
Sodium is a mineral that is required to maintain body fluids and proper nerve function. It occurs naturally in some foods, but most of the sodium in our diets comes from seasonings and ingredients we add to foods. Although sodium is essential, most of us consume more than we need. Limit salty food in your diet and try fresh, natural seasonings such as basil, parsley or chives to add flavor to your meals.

In addition to watching what you eat, keeping active helps to expel intestinal gas and relieve bloating. If you've failed to follow the tips above and overindulged in a summer meal, try taking a walk to relieve discomfort. Frequent exercise can help keep the intestines moving properly, so find ways to work it into your lifestyle. Of course, if your abdomen is tender to the touch or if you are experiencing extreme pain, seek medical advice to make sure that there is not a more serious underlying cause for the bloating.

Riverview Medical Center, a member of the Meridian Health Family, is a non-profit community hospital located in Red Bank, New Jersey, providing health care programs and services in all major medical disciplines, including maternity; oncology; orthopedics and rehabilitation; general, neuro, thoracic and vascular surgery; cardiology; renal dialysis; diabetes management; and emergency and critical care services. Riverview's Booker Cancer Center is an affiliate of the renowned Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, and Riverview is home to the only fully accredited acute comprehensive inpatient rehabilitation center in Monmouth County. In addition, its Women Center and Childbirth Center specialize in the full spectrum of needs for the body, mind and spirit.For more information about Riverview Medical Center and Meridian Health, please call the Meridian Health Line at 1-800-560-9990 or visit www.riverviewmedicalcenter.com.

####