Discussion Board

Hi Jeff,

Prior to increasing fruits, veggies and fiber, I had no problems with gas or bloating; only minimally with eating baked beans for example.

But over a year ago, I started increasing my veggies and fiber and instead of easing up, it is getting much WORSE! I know you might suggest IBS, but if it only started when I started to increase my fiber intake, could it be that? It's been 15 months!

I drink a liter and a half of water a day and exercise.

My last two days have consisted of whole wheat bread, a good amount of homemade hummus, baked beans, potatoes, lots veggies including cabbage (which seems to really kill me), some banana ice cream (made with frozen bananas), cucumbers, tomatoes, lettuce. That's about it.

Any other thoughts? Much appreciated!

I'm attending Dr. McDougall's Ten Day Program in September so I will get to meet you Jeff. Looking forward to it!

Nancy

Well, there are several ways to approach this. First, is to really clean up your diet and go on an elimination diet for a few days till it all clears up. then you can slowly add back foods that you think are problematic to see how you react to them.

Another way to look at this is..

.. there are several foods that are known to be the most likely culprits contributing to this issue: they are raw vegetables, cruciferous vegetables (cabbage family -broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, etc), and beans. If someone is experiencing any gas or bloating, there are a few steps they can take to make the transition easier.

1) Reduce, but do not eliminate, the amount of the foods that may cause the most bloating and gas.

2) Thoroughly cook these foods as cooking helps to soften and break down the fiber, making it easier to digest. This is especially helpful in regard to raw vegetables and cruciferous vegetables.

3) Sprouting and/or soaking beans before cooking them may help to reduce the indigestible sugars in bean.

Look forward to seeing you in September.

In Health
Jeff