Most people experience a bloated stomach every now and then, usually after eating a big meal or indulging in a fast food binge. It’s normal to feel bloated in these instances, as the body works to digest the food consumed. Fast food can be particularly complex to digest due to its high saturated fat content. Some healthy foods, such as cruciferous vegetables like cauliflower and cabbage, can also cause bloating due to them containing carbohydrates the human body lacks the enzymes to break down.
In addition, bloating can be caused by intolerances to certain foods, such as dairy or gluten.
A bloated stomach can be avoided by cutting down on bloat-inducing foods, but it’s also possible to relieve symptoms by eating other foods which contain properties that can boost digestion.
Nutritionist Amanda Hamilton recommends drinking goats’ milk if you want to improve your gut health.
While goats’ milk is a dairy product and may not be suitable for people with dairy allergies, it can be an appropriate alternative for those who are allergic to cows’ milk.
Cows’ milk allergies are relatively common and can cause a wealth of side effects from bloating to eczema.
According to Hamilton, goats’ milk is gentler on the stomach than cows’ milk and is less likely to trigger allergy symptoms.
In addition, goats’ milk contains less lactose than cows’ milk, so could be a suitable alternative for people who are sensitive to lactose.
“As more of us become aware that cows’ milk may not suit the needs of our bodies, seeking out an alternative can be overwhelming when faced with so many on the shelves,” said Hamilton.
“It’s never been more confusing to make the right personal choice!
“For me, goats’ products have always been a fridge staple. Goats’ milk has what I’d broadly call ‘digestive advantages’ as it is not only naturally rich in nutrients but is gentler on the stomach too because of its easily digestible fats and proteins.
“It’s also less likely to trigger allergy symptoms, has been reported to aid with eczema, asthma and digestive discomfort.”
Even if it is unlikely cows’ milk or lactose are the reasons behind your bloated stomach, swapping cows’ milk with goats’ milk could still improve gut problems, explains Hamilton.
This is because goats’ milk contains non-digestible sugars, or oligosaccharides, that can act as prebiotics.
Prebiotics help maintain the health of the gastrointestinal tract by encouraging the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and preventing the growth of detrimental bacteria.
Goats’ milk is a better source and has a much higher content of oligosaccharides than cows’ milk, according to Hamilton.
“Whilst goats’ milk consumption currently accounts for a small but growing percentage of the UK dairy market, it is the milk of choice in most of the world,” the nutritionist said.