I have been going through menopause for about 2 years and one of my problems is I've got a bloated tummy! I don't over eat and think I eat fairly well, but my tummy is a big problem and is getting me down. Have you any suggestions of how I can get this big tummy down?

Bloating is very common in the menopause and can be caused by several factors.

Falling levels of oestrogen can affect the digestive process, slowing everything down and this can result in bloating.

Falling oestrogen levels can also have an effect on carbohydrate metabolism, making it more difficult to digest
starches and sugars, and this can often lead to bloating too.

Therefore, you may find our Molkosan, which acts as a prebiotic, in combination with and a good quality probiotic, such as one from the Optibac range, helpful.

Try to avoid white bread, pasta, cakes, biscuits and also white rice if you don't already. If your bowel isn't moving at least once per day (preferably twice) then this can contribute to bloating too.

You can find out more about bloating and its causes, as well as tips and advice in my blog article: 'Menopause & bloating: what causes it & how to beat the bloat'.

However, if you have had the bloating for a while and especially if it gives you pain then it is important to get it checked out by your doctor as well.

Eileen Durward