Non-Gassy Foods to Eat Before a Date

If you're like most people, you produce 1 to 4 pints of gas and pass gas about 14 times daily, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Although gas is a normal part of health, it can cause abdominal discomfort, result in an unpleasant aroma and lead to embarrassment at social functions. If your goal is a non-gassy, romantic date, eating certain foods and avoiding others beforehand can help. Should you experience severe symptoms, however, seek guidance from your doctor.

Rice

Starches like breads, pasta, rice and potatoes provide valuable amounts of glucose, your body's main dietary source of energy. Unfortunately, most starches also produce gas in your large intestine during digestion, according to the NDDIC. To reap energy benefits without potential gassiness, consume rice before your date; rice is the only starch that does not trigger gas.

Non-Gaseous Fruits and Vegetables

Fruits and vegetables are important sources of nutrients, water and fiber in most healthy diets. Baked beans, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, cabbage, apples, peaches and pears, however, commonly trigger gas, according to the Mayo Clinic. If you are prone to gas, enjoy non-gaseous varieties prior to romantic outings. Valuable options include blueberries, citrus fruits, cantaloupe, bell peppers, carrots, mushrooms, kiwis, grapes and nectarines.

Lean Protein

Protein provides amino acids, which are the building blocks of lean tissue. They also play an important role in brain function. However, fatty protein sources, such as processed meats, high-fat cheeses and fried foods, delay stomach emptying, reports the Mayo Clinic, increasing your risk for uncomfortable fullness, bloating and gas. Lean, protein-rich alternatives include skinless, white-meat poultry, egg whites, tofu and fish. For added benefit, use low-fat cooking techniques, like baking, broiling and poaching, to prepare your protein source.

Soy

Many people lack the enzyme needed to digest lactose, or the sugar that occurs naturally in cow's milk, according to the NDDIC. If you are one such person, foods containing lactose can cause gassiness. Soy, a protein-fortified legume, provides a calcium-rich alternative to dairy-containing foods. Swap low-fat milk with soy milk, for example, and snack on boiled soybeans instead of cheesy chips. Soy-based yogurts, cheeses and ice cream are also available.