Have you ever eaten a meal that’s supposed to be “healthy” and thought, “Why am I bloated?” afterward? The truth is, even nutritious foods can leave you feeling uncomfortable, bloated, and yes, gassy too.
That’s because not all healthy choices are easy for your body to digest. Even popular wellness staples can be the very things causing that post-meal discomfort, so let’s talk about which foods to stay away from and which PTF foods you can substitute to feel your best!
Let’s look at five surprising causes of bloating and how you can combat them.
- Smoothies
Smoothies are a convenient and easy way to load up on nutrients and are definitely refreshing on these hot summer days. However, common go-to smoothie ingredients like raw spinach, apples, and peaches can cause bloating if you eat too much.
Tip: Replace the smoothies with PTF’s delicious, low-carb protein shakes!
- Legumes
Beans, lentils, and chickpeas are rich in protein, fiber, and minerals like potassium and iron. They also contain raffinose, the same non-digestible sugar found in cruciferous veggies. Since our bodies can’t fully break it down, legumes can pass through the body without being digested, which often leads to gas and bloating.
Tip: Replace the legumes and get your fiber fix with PTF’s veggie options.
- Artificial Sweeteners
Sweeteners like stevia and aspartame may be low-calorie or even zero-calorie, but they’re not always easy on your gut. Sugar alcohols and other ingredients commonly found in artificial sweeteners are tough for your body to digest, which can cause gas and bloating.
Tip: Use simple, natural sweeteners like maple syrup, honey, or agave in moderation.
- Whole Grains
Wheat, rye, and barley are fiber-rich and nutrient-dense, but for many people, these high-fiber grains can cause bloating, especially when eaten in large amounts.
Tip: Replace grains with PTF’s low-carb, fiber-rich veggie options!
It’s All About Balance
All of these foods offer important health benefits. It’s just a matter of finding what works best for your body. If you’re experiencing bloating after eating “healthy,” try adjusting your portions, preparation, or ingredients to see what helps.
How PTF Meals Help You Beat the Bloat
At Personal Trainer Food, we believe eating healthy should help you live better, and living better means feeling your best. That’s why our meals are designed to be simple, satisfying, and easy on your gut.
All of our meal options are:
- Low-carb
- Free from added sugars and artificial sweeteners
- High in protein
- Fully prepared and perfectly portioned
Want to feel the difference for yourself? Explore our meal plans!
About the Writer: Sam Watts has nearly 10 years of experience in the health and wellness industry with a focus on fitness. He earned a BS in Movement Science from TCU in 2017 and uses it in his work as a Functional Movement Specialist. Currently, he is the owner of Watts Fitness and the Co-Owner of Personal Trainer Food.
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