Treating menopause bloating can be difficult, but diet changes and medication may help to lessen the symptoms. Drinking less water is one way to combat menopause bloating. So is avoiding salt, which can absorb water and hold it in the body. In addition, there are some over-the counter diuretics which can be taken, as well as natural cures such as dandelion tea. If the bloating is excessive, it may be a sign of a weak heart or weak kidneys, which will need to be checked out by a doctor.
Menopause bloating can be caused by many different hormonal changes happening in your body. The same hormones which cause water retention will be released at random times during menopause, causing someone to begin retaining water without a probable cause. Hormone replacements used to treat menopause can also result in increased estrogen levels, which can cause water retention.
Another cause of menopause bloating is gas. Doctors are not entirely sure what causes an increase in intestinal gas during menopause. It may be a result of the loss of hormones, which could increase bacteria in the gut, or the result of changes in diet. After menopause, many women make an effort to eat more fruits, vegetables, and yogurt, which are high in fiber. The sudden dietary changes can cause an increase in intestinal bacteria, which leads to gas.
To combat flatulence, the sufferer can cut down on or cut out foods that are particularly high in gas-causing fiber, like wheat, cauliflower, and beans. Tofu and yogurt can also cause gas. If there is a great deal more gas than normal even without dietary changes, over-the-counter drugs can be used.
Another cause of menopause bloating could be lactose intolerance. Lactose intolerance is when a person is unable to digest the sugars in milk. It can develop with age, even if someone has never had problems drinking it before. The gas and bloating can be controlled by cutting down on the amount of milk you drink, taking medication for it that will help break down the sugars, or avoiding milk altogether.
Menopause can lead to weight gain. As levels of testosterone and other hormones drop as a result of menopause, the metabolism slows. Since weight gain post-menopause is usually carried in the stomach, it can give the appearance of bloating. The increased fat content may have a purpose in that it allows a way for the body to create more estrogen. Women can cut down the bloated look by trying to shed pounds with healthy eating and exercise.