Q: My doctor recommended that I add more fruits and vegetables to my diet. I have slowly increased my intake over the past two months, but lately I have begun to experience increased gas and bloating. Are there certain foods to avoid to limit abdominal distress? How can I embrace a more healthful diet but banish the discomfort?

A: Congratulations on working to embrace a more nutritious diet. Incorporating more fruits and vegetables, which provide valuable fiber, is a step in the right direction to help manage cholesterol, blood pressure, blood sugar and overall weight. However, if you are not used to consuming fiber-rich foods in your diet, you will want to do so slowly to avoid bloating and abdominal pain.

The amount of fiber each person needs is based on age. Generally, men ages 50 and younger should aim for 38 grams of fiber daily, whereas women of this age would target 25 grams daily. As we age, fiber intake recommendations decrease. Men aged 51 and older should aim for 30 grams of fiber daily; women should aim for 21 grams daily.

Certain foods and drinks can trigger excess digestive discomfort.

Consider avoiding the following common offenders.

Fruits with high fructose: Many people avoid fruit because fruit has sugar, including fructose and sorbitol, which can cause inflammation and gas. But fruit contains fiber, which is important for a healthy diet, and beneficial vitamins and minerals.

Avoid fruits that are high in fructose, such as apples, pears and watermelon. Instead, choose bananas, oranges, cantaloupe and darker- hued fruit — such as blackberries, blueberries and strawberries — which contain valuable antioxidants.

Beans and lentils: Though beans and lentils are excellent sources of protein and fiber, these foods also contain complex sugars called oligosaccharides, which cause bloating and gas as they pass through the digestive system. To reduce the amount of sugar, always rinse canned beans and ensure they are thoroughly cooked. Cooking beans until they are very soft helps to decrease gas production.

Easier-to-digest options that will cause less bloating include tofu, tempeh or quinoa.

Cruciferous vegetables: Broccoli, cauliflower, brussels sprouts and cabbage are among the most challenging to digest due to their complex fibers, which tend to ferment in the gut, causing gas and bloating.

Alternative nutrient-rich foods that are easier on the gut include dark leafy greens like kale, spinach and Swiss chard.

Onions and garlic: Many allium family varieties, including red and yellow onions and garlic, can be difficult to digest. This is because they contain fructan, which can ferment in the gut and cause nausea, bloating, gas and diarrhea. To reduce sensitivity, cook the vegetables well or soak in water for at least 15 minutes if eating them raw. You may also consider using powdered versions — although some people may still have sensitivity.

To enhance flavor in your dishes, look to alternatives such as celery, fennel, shallots or chives. You can also add other spices and herbs, such as basil, ginger and oregano, to add depth to your meals without the fear of digestive issues.

With some adjustments, you can ease the bloating and discomfort you currently experience. Try the following.

Eat smaller meals, more frequently: Instead of eating large meals, eat smaller portions more frequently throughout the day. This can help your digestive system process food more efficiently, reducing bloating.

Eat slowly: Taking time to chew your food thoroughly can help ensure that food is properly broken down in your mouth, which aids digestion and reduces the strain on your stomach. This also helps you to avoid overeating, which can put unnecessary pressure on your digestive system.

Stay hydrated: Drink enough water daily to support healthy digestion. Being properly hydrated helps move food through your digestive tract.

If you find that you still experience bloating, gas or other abdominal discomfort, talk with your primary care doctor.

— Christine Nguyen, D.O., Family Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Florida

Mayo Clinic Q&A is an educational resource and doesn’t replace medical care. Email a question to MayoClinicQ&A@mayo.edu.