I have also done what tenerifebell said as it works and I have 2 kids and thyroid issues..ugh! just read my profile..
One of the most DETRIMENTAL things in helping me with my weight loss/waist reduction is this little miracle:
http://www.laurensilva.com/siluet_body_shapewear_s/795.htm
I NEVER EVER in my whole entire life thought i would ever see my mid-section so small!! This **** really DOES work, u just gotta wear it religiously, I don't even WANT to take mine off, like EVER!
Bloated stomachs are nearly always due to either: fluid retention; irritable bowel syndrome; stress or food intolerance.
If you bloat before a period try cutting down on salt and salty foods and eat potassium rich foods such as bananas, fruit and veg, nuts and chicken. If you have irritable bowel syndrome try drinking peppermint tea and most importantly eat slowly and chew food to a pulp to help digestion. For stress try yoga, breathing techniques and again concentrate on eating slowly and chewing food thoroughly. If you suffer from food intolerance you need to follow an elimination diet to see which foods are causing you the problem. Try The Flat Stomach Diet at http://www.flatstomachplan.com. Hope this helps.