How to Ease the Discomfort of Premenstrual Bloating

Sophie Spyrou

Premenstrual bloating is just one of the many unpleasant side effects that many women have to put up with each month as their period is about the begin. It can leave them feeling full and heavier than usual as they struggle to fit into their jeans or other items of clothing. What practical steps can you take to ease the discomfort of premenstrual bloating?

Stay Well Hydrated


When you are feeling bloated and uncomfortable, you will want to ensure you stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. Put away the fizzy, carbonated drinks, limit caffeine intake and drink plenty of water instead, to help flush out your system and ease the bloating. Carbonated drinks can compound the problem of premenstrual bloating, so keep away from such drinks during that time and stick with plain water instead.

Eat Small, Nutritious Meals Throughout the Day

Do you usually load up on three large meals each day? Or worse, do you regularly skip meals? You are not doing yourself any favours by overloading on food at mealtimes or by skipping meals, especially when you are prone to premenstrual bloating each month.

One of the best ways to combat premenstrual bloating is to eat several small, nutritious meals throughout the day so that you are not faced with even more bloating than you are already experiencing. Stay away from greasy, fried foods, cakes and pies and opt for whole grains, fresh fruit and vegetables and lean sources of protein instead.

Wear Loose-fitting Clothing

Wearing your normal sized clothing when you are bloated will only add to the discomfort you feel as you become bloated. Ditch form-fitting clothing, and clothes that come with buttons and zips. Opt for loose dresses, tunics and items that have elasticated waistbands, for extra comfort and room, when you need it the most during that special time of the month.

Premenstrual bloating is never much fun, but it is something that many women of childbearing years have to deal with each month. You can ease the symptoms of premenstrual bloating naturally by staying well hydrated, eating small meals throughout the day and wearing loose-fitting clothing that allows you extra room to move around.

Published by Sophie Spyrou

Sophie has been writing for the Yahoo! Contributor Network since 13th May 2007. She used her previous status as a Featured Contributor (Travel, then Pets) to share her personal knowledge about the UK culture...  View profile

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