Distension

Question
Hi

I am male, 50.

I was always chubby, not obese, with most of my weight on my abdomen and chest.

I thinned out a bit as an adult but the weight crept up in my forties.

It got to the point where my belly was so bloated-not fat but firm-It was uncomfortable.

For the past six months I have cut out gluten,alcohol, most sweets, and started running.I eat under 1500 calories a day,mostly chicken ,fruit and veggies,gluten free bread.

I have lost bodyfat and reduced my blood pressure, but my belly remains distended.

I have been eating more yogurt which seems to ease the discomfort discomfort, but hasnt reduced the bloating.

Thanks for any suggestions!


Answer
Hello Van,



Thank you for your question. Based on all that you are sharing with me, you have already made the initial changes I would have suggested you consider. I will  begin to provide additional recommendations based on how I understand your question. My understanding is you are concerned with the bloating and not just the cosmetics of how your stomach appears. If this is the case, I would suggest you consider a fast for 24-48 hours. The fast would consist of .5-1 cups of rice 3x per day (sprouted preferably with no more than sea salt for seasoning), fruit (not to exceed 3 servings per day), and plenty of water. You should also consider introducing a digestive enzyme during this period such as Papaya extract. During the fasting period, you may experience increased hunger, headaches, cramping and dizziness. If this is the case, increase the fasting foods intake. Should the symptoms become unbearable discontinue the fasting immediately.  



The purpose of the fasting is to assist your body in resetting its digesting mechanisms. Once you have completing the fasting time, begin slowly introducing foods back into your diet one food at a time. Start with the veggies. Then the grains progressing to dairies and leaving the meats for last as they along with the dairies are the hardest to digest. The purpose for introducing the foods one at a time is to assist you with finding which foods actually contribute to your bloating. Once you have your list, you will be able to better know which foods to avoid.



Now if the physical appearance of your stomach is of concern, keep in mind that the stomach area is the most challenging for most men to slim and shapen. The reason is that is the area where men tend to retain their weight. Keeping to your regimen of no gluten (I would add wheat to the list as well), no refined sugars, and alcohol will bring you eventually to a tipping point where you will begin to notice significant changes around your midsection. The key is consistency and patience. I hope this information has been helpful. Should you have additional questions, please let me know. Be well.



Regards,

Coninyah B. Dew L.Ac., M.S.O.M.

Acupuncture Stress and Pain Management Practices