Flat stomach: Cut down salt intake

A new book by Robynne Chutkan, a gastroenterologist, founder of the Digestive Centre for Women in Washington D.C., suggests women have a tendency to bloat more than men mainly because they have longer intestines.

The male and female digestive tracts show major differences says Chutkan. So, to shrink the stomach size, a few precautions must be taken, reports femalefirst.co.uk.

Cut down on salt: Too much salt in the diet contributes to edema and bloating. Stick to the Recommended intake in a day is 1500 mg of salt intake a day.Avoid adding salt to your dinner, limit the amount whilst cooking,avoiding ready meals is a must too as these are laden with salt for flavour.

Eat more fiber: Eating a combination of soluble and insoluble fiber rich foods such as oranges, mushrooms, raspberries, broccoli and cabbage is an effective way to stay fit, avoid the bloated feeling that comes with constipation.

Focus on potassium-rich foods: As sodium makes body retain water, potassium helps get rid of excess water. Eating potassium-rich foods like bananas and sweet potatoes can help minimise your middle waist. But make sure to exercise right as these can be fattening too.

Stay hydrated: Drinking enough water eases constipation and not drinking enough water can also aggravate your sodium and potassium levels.

Avoid digestive stress: Stay away from foods like sugary or fatty foods that are difficult to digest and focus on simple meals made with whole foods and steamed vegetables to heal digestive system.

Ditch artificial sweeteners: Flavoured water, diet, low-carbs and sugar-free foods, artificial sweeteners aren't completely digested by body. Bacteria in the large intestine tend to ferment them, causing gas and bloating. Always check food labels to avoid sorbitol, mannitol, xylitol and lacitol.