When winter rolls around, it’s tempting to indulge in comfort foods like hearty stews, rich gratins, and, of course, the ever-popular raclette. But as enjoyable as these meals are, they often come with an unwelcome side effect: bloating. If you’re looking to keep your stomach flat and free from discomfort, you might want to consider turning to herbal teas. According to dietician-nutritionist Raphaël Gruman, certain teas can be your best allies in the fight against belly bloat.
Trusted Allies Against Bloating
Digestive discomfort is something we’ve all experienced, whether it’s bloating, gas, or that heavy feeling after a big meal. Fortunately, nature has provided us with some powerful plants that can help. These herbs don’t just soothe the stomach; they also improve digestion, restore balance to your gut microbiome, and even reduce inflammation. Let’s dive into a couple of these herbal heroes that dieticians swear by.
Psyllium Husk
One of the top recommendations is Plantago ovata, commonly known as psyllium husk or blond psyllium. This plant is packed with soluble fiber, making it a go-to remedy for both constipation and diarrhea. But psyllium isn’t just about regularity; it’s also fantastic for maintaining a healthy digestive tract and supporting weight loss.
Gruman highlights the benefits: “Psyllium husk is great for transit because it releases probiotics in the colon. These good bacteria help digest nutrients and prevent colonic fermentation, which is often the culprit behind bloating.”
How to Consume It:
To get the most out of psyllium, mix a teaspoon of the powder into your herbal tea and drink it right away. The maximum recommended dose is 20 grams per day, which is about one tablespoon, split into several servings.
Curly Mallow
Next on the list is a lesser-known herb with impressive benefits: curly mallow. This rare plant from China acts as a deep cleanser for the body, helping to flush out toxins from the liver, kidneys, and intestines.
As Gruman advises, “Curly mallow is a natural laxative, perfect for preventing constipation. If you take it in the evening, you’ll wake up with a flatter stomach.”
How to Consume It:
To prepare, steep one tablespoon of the dried herb in a cup of hot water for 5 to 10 minutes. Drink it before bed for the best results.
