Real Life Nutrition Questions Answered

Real Life Fitness Questions Answered

Emma Brown
Nutritionist

Janet Aylott
Nutritionist

Kelly Marshall
Fitness Consultant

Q.

Bloated after a c-section

Hi, I am trying to lose the weight I gained during pregnancy and as I had a c-section my stomach is a problem area. After my lunch today it is hugely bloated and uncomfortable. I often feel bloated in the afternoon although I only have a small lunch. I normally have bread so I'm wondering if that might be the issue, although I didn't actually feel bloated today until after my cup of tea. I was thinking about trying to remove bread from my diet but will find it very difficult as I love it. Any suggestions?

A.

Our expert says...

The reasons for bloating can be many varied. You could try cutting out bread at lunch time for a while, but I'm guessing this isn't actually the problem. Though it's not a recognised medical phenomenon, it seems a number of women find they experience bloating or IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) even many months after a c-section. What you could do is monitor more carefully when the bloating occurs and what you have eaten/drunk in the hours proceeding it. Is the bloating accompanied by wind? If so cutting out obvious wind producers like fizzy drinks, spicy food, and beans may help, as may taking a probiotic drink or supplement, Dairy is another possible culprit, as is eating on the go or whilst feeling very stressed.

I?d like to be able to give you more concrete help and suggestions, but there are so many possibilities. If the discomfort continues, do visit your GP.

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