John Myers
Collard greens contain a lot of fiber that is not broken down during the chewing and in the small intestine. They serve as food for the intestinal bacteria in the large intestine. The bacteria produce vitamins and other important substances for our body, strengthen the immune system and break down toxic and carcinogenic substances. But gases are also produced, which stretch the intestines and escape as flatulence or can lead to abdominal pain.
Spices against flatulence
These spices can help prevent or reduce bloating from collards:
- coriander
- cumin
- cardamom
- Ginger
- Asafoetida (Ayurvedic spice)
Natural anti-bloating remedies
How well tolerated cabbage is also depends on the side dishes. In northern German cuisine, cabbage is often eaten with high-fat dishes and a lot of alcohol: complaints such as flatulence are often the result. After hearty cabbage dishes, bitter substances stimulate fat digestion. Seeds of fennel, anise, and caraway also have a bloating effect. They are good as tea for cabbage dishes.
Anti-bloating medication
The gases produced after eating cabbage are present in the gastrointestinal tract as sluggish, fine-bubbled foam. This makes it difficult or even impossible for the gases to be absorbed normally through the intestinal wall. So-called defoamers from the pharmacy are intended to reduce the surface tension of the gas bubbles and thereby allow them to burst. The released gases should then be absorbed by the intestinal wall or excreted with the stool. But there are not many studies that prove the effectiveness of defoamers.
Tips for less bloating after eating cabbage
- Those who are used to cabbage can tolerate it better: It is best to start with small portions and eat cabbage dishes regularly. In this way, the intestinal flora can adjust to it.
- Cabbage causes less bloating once frozen.
- After eating, exercise can reduce bloating because sitting traps gas in the intestines.
