If you ever experience a feeling of fullness in your abdomen, it could be bloating, and there are ways to prevent it or stop it from occurring.

Bloating is when the digestive system fills up with excessive gas, which can be quite uncomfortable. It can happen at any time and to anyone, but women usually suffer the most.

Although some people think that bloat is a part of being healthy and that they must tolerate it, that’s not exactly true. You can eat well and also keep a trimmer abdomen. Here are some ways to combat bloat:

* Drink water – The body is mostly water. When we don’t drink enough, we can become constipated. Our digestive systems can get a little sluggish. Water gives the body an internal shower and also cleans out the pipes. If you don’t like plain water, try flavored water drinks or foods that have high water content.

* Add fiber – The average daily fiber intake is about thirty grams. Most people get less than half of that. Fiber helps you feel full. Choose high fiber carbohydrates and fruits and vegetables that contain it.

* Avoid cruciferous vegetables – This would include broccoli, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts. Some people have a build-up of gas from eating them. If that is you, then choose different vegetables to add to your diet. If you really like them, you can take something like Beano before you eat.  Of course, the more cruciferous vegetables you do eat and the more your body gets used to them, the less gas they will cause in your digestive system.

* Avoid the air – We are not talking about flying, but breathing. People who talk when they eat suck in more air than others. This excess air can create more gas in the digestive tract, leading to bloat. Drinking through a straw can do the same thing as well.

* Lactose intolerance – If you are having a lot of bloating and abdominal pain after eating dairy products, you may have a problem with lactose intolerance. Try soy products, or try taking Lactaid before you eat cheese or ice cream.

* Avoid salt – Most food has salt in it, but adding more can lead to swelling in the stomach. Avoiding processed foods can limit your sodium intake. Drink lots of water to flush out excess salt.

* Take PMS seriously – There are medicines that can reduce any bloat during premenstrual syndrome.

* Use natural remedies – Before you head for the medicine cabinet, go to the kitchen. Peppermint can help relax digestive muscles and prevent bloating. Use supplements that remove excess gas.

If you are battling bloat, whether man or woman, you can counteract bloating with a few easy steps.