Bloating With Plant-Based Diet?

I've been flirting with a vegan diet and tripled my plant intake over the last 3-4 weeks.

Since then I've noticed severe bloating (my husband says I look pregnant). I am drinking lots of water and consuming whole grains, beans, rice, etc. Could this be causing the bloating?

I keep a food diary but can't determine what makes it worse. Please help.

Michelle says: It's pretty common for people to get gas and bloating after increasing their fiber intake. This may be what's happening in your situation.

It hasn't been that long since you've tripled your intake of plant-based foods, so your body may not have gotten used to all that extra fiber you're getting.

To make the transition smoother, try cutting back on your fiber intake for the time being. Then, gradually increase it as your system is able to handle it.

Hope that helps,

Michelle

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Bloating With Plant-Based Diet?

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Bloating with a plant-based diet
by: Ivy - New Zealand

I agree with Michelle - do things gradually. I note that you are eating beans. Are you eating canned beans? If so, you may consider cooking them yourself. I, personally, purchase a pack, soak them overnight, wash them thoroughly, then cook them for around 45 minutes. Drain off the water, rinse again, then cook them again for a further 45 minutes. I then make up into meal sizes, let cool thoroughly, then freeze.

My daughter has remarked that when she eats beans, peas etc. that I have cooked she does not suffer wind or bloating.

It is worth a try. On a positve note, it is so much cheaper.

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