Bloating in Menopause: The 8 Best Foods to Ease Discomfort (And What to Avoid)
Bloating can be uncomfortable, unpredictable, and for some, one of the most frustrating symptoms of menopause. As hormones like estrogen and progesterone shift and decline from perimenopause to postmenopause, digestion slows, gut bacteria may change, and fluid retention becomes more common. Together, these factors can make bloating a regular—yet entirely unwelcome—part of life.
The good news? Small dietary tweaks can make a big difference. Here’s a simple guide to the top foods that can reduce bloating, plus a few to approach with care.
The top 8 foods to reduce bloating during perimenopause and menopause
Each of these foods works to ease bloating by soothing your digestive system, reducing inflammation, or supporting a balanced gut—giving you noticeable relief.
1. Ginger
A warming digestive hero, ginger relaxes the gastrointestinal muscles and calms inflammation, helping to ease bloating and gas. Whether you sip it as a tea or add it to meals, ginger offers gentle, effective support.
2. Papaya
More than a sweet treat, papaya is a digestion superstar. Packed with papain, a natural enzyme that helps break down proteins, it reduces bloating and promotes smoother digestion. Enjoy it fresh or in smoothies for maximum benefit.
3. Cucumber
Hydrating and refreshing, cucumbers help reduce water retention—a common cause of bloating during menopause. Their natural antioxidants also calm inflammation, leaving you feeling lighter.
4. Fennel seeds
Long used as a remedy for bloating, fennel seeds reduce gas and soothe the digestive tract. Brew them into tea or chew on a few seeds after meals for instant relief.
5. Bananas
Rich in potassium, bananas balance sodium levels in your body, reducing water retention and bloating. They’re a simple, portable snack to support digestive health.
6. Sauerkraut
This probiotic-rich fermented food promotes a healthy gut microbiome, helping to reduce gas and bloating. Add a spoonful to your meals to encourage better digestion and support gut health.
7. Avocado
Creamy and versatile, avocados are packed with potassium and healthy fats that reduce water retention and inflammation. They’re an easy addition to meals for digestion-friendly nourishment.
8. Kiwi
A vibrant, fiber-rich fruit, kiwi contains actinidin, a unique enzyme that helps break down proteins and supports regular digestion. It’s a natural ally against bloating and discomfort.
Why These Foods Work
These foods aren’t just effective—they’re strategic, they work by:
- Soothing inflammation to calm the digestive system.
- Aiding digestion with natural enzymes.
- Hydrating the body to combat water retention.
- Balancing the gut microbiota with probiotics.
Incorporating these into your diet not only eases bloating but supports long-term gut health, helping you feel lighter and more comfortable.
Foods to Be Mindful Of
1. Cruciferous vegetables
While nutrient-dense, veggies like broccoli, cauliflower, and kale contain raffinose, a sugar that can ferment in the gut and cause gas. Cooking them thoroughly makes them easier to digest.
2. Dairy
As estrogen levels decline, lactose intolerance can become more common. If dairy triggers bloating, consider lactose-free or plant-based alternatives.
3. Carbonated drinks
Fizzy drinks introduce air into your digestive system, leading to bloating. Stick to still water or herbal teas instead.
4. Processed foods
High in sodium and additives, processed foods can cause water retention and digestive discomfort. Opt for whole, unprocessed foods wherever possible.
Why bloating happens during perimenopause and menopause
Bloating often increases during the menopause transition due to hormonal fluctuations. Changes in estrogen and progesterone can slow digestion, alter gut bacteria, and lead to fluid retention. Lower estrogen levels can also disrupt the gut-brain connection, making your digestive system more sensitive to stress and certain foods.
Simple steps to support digestion
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough water prevents constipation and supports healthy digestion.
- Chew Slowly: Take time to eat mindfully, allowing your body to process food more efficiently.
- Move Daily: Gentle exercise like yoga or walking stimulates digestion and eases trapped gas.
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Track Triggers: Keep a food diary to identify which foods help or hinder your digestion.
Bloating can feel like a constant battle, but it’s also your body’s way of asking for support. By incorporating digestion-friendly foods and tuning into what works for you, you’re giving your gut the care it needs to reset and thrive—helping you feel lighter, more balanced, and in tune with your body.
Discover our range of evidence-based supplements, developed with mind and body nutrients to support your body and your needs before, during, and after this transitionary life stage.
This article has been reviewed by our expert advisory team.
