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Starting Back Vegan - Digestion Issues
Started
by Christa Walden
on December 6, 2011
I just started back eating a gluten free - Vegan Diet. However, I am experiencing problems I didn't have when I previously started a vegan diet. I have indegestion, and extreme bloat (so bad that I am nauseated). I understand that it may either be My digestive system getting used to the vegan diet again or the amount of soy that I am taking in. But for now, I plan on fasting for 2 days. Eating only citrus when hungry and drinking lots of water.
Also, I think I may just be taking in too much fiber when my stomach isn't used to it. I eat a lot of brown rice. I may not be taking in enough water. Any suggestions other than the obvious 'drink more water'? Like is there a way i can drink a certain way or time to help aid in digestion?
Drinking water close to meals can actually dilute stomach acid further. Low stomach acid is usually the primary cause of indigestion, gas and bloating due to increased fermentation.
It can take your body a little while to get used to the increase in fiber and volume of foods when changing over to a primarily plant based diet.
A little raw apple cider vinegar mid meal can help, as can bitter herbs on the back of the tongue pre meal to stimulate digestion.
Amla & Vegan Blog
How long have you been in transition? If your body is at a different state (and obvs of course it is!) than the last time you made the switch, its to be expected.
I also experienced bloating when I first switched. I found that gentle exercise like walking helped. Also lemon and a slice of ginger in hot water.
hope that helps! Good luck!
Mary
http://www.marystestkitchen.com
I eat 2tbsp of raw sauerkraut with each meal (pickled planet makes a good one). It has natural probiotics that when eaten with your meal helps digestion. I guarantee that it will help because I had the same problem as you and now it's completely gone. Also I take Gaia thyroid support supplements (2 in the morning 1 hr before breakfast, 1 in the evening 1 hr before dinner). This helps me digest and take in all my nutrients.
(www.themacroveg.blogspot.com)
Fermented foods such as Beverly suggested are great for digestion due to being rich sources of good bacteria. I like to consume a little water kefir.
Amla Powder & Vegan Blog
Hey powerlifer,
Could you talk a little more about what water kefir is and how it's benefitial? I'm curious :)
(www.themacroveg.blogspot.com)
Hey Beverly,
Kefir is a fermented drink traditionally milk but obviously not vegan. You can ferment kefir with any milk substitute such as coconut, soy milk or water like i say. Produces a nice fermented drink which is primarily rich in good bacteria, in the same way your sauerkraut is. So great for supporting the gut flora.
Also rich in amino acids, vitamins, minerals etc.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kefir
Amla Powder & Vegan Blog
I have been flirting with veganism for a year and I am ready to go full on. It just takes planning on my part. My family eats meat and cheese, but eat less now that I make all meeals. We rarely eat out, and everyone comments on how heathy and fit we all are. I also have bloat on occation and have sourkraut on my grocery list. I just feel better all the way around when I ommit all dairy/meat. I don't tell people I am vegan. I don't think I need to explain myself etc. It's just easier. For the people I know that really want to know why I don't consume animal products/animals...I am happy to have a freindly discussion. All others...I don't need to get myself all upset. Good luck.
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