Stomach bloating is no laughing matter. It’s uncomfortable, painful and often embarrassing accompanied by gas! This nightmare swells the abdominal area, causing cramping aches and pain around the pelvis or chest areas.
Fortunately, there are a number of natural ways to prevent and get rid of bloating altogether. They can be easily performed at home to provide instant relief. But first, let’s look at the causes of this deliberating condition.
Symptoms of Bloating
Bloating originates from a slight swelling around the midriff area. Then it’s often accompanied by a number of the following symptoms:
• Dull, aching pains in the stomach, chest or pelvis
• Excessive flatulence
• Excessive burping
• Unsettled Stomach
Common Causes of Stomach Bloating
Bloating and excessive gas problems can be traced back to digestive alignment. Often, it’s caused by a difficulty in digesting high-fibre foods in the small digestive tract. Direct causes may include the following:
• Swallowing excessive air whilst eating or drinking. You may be able to get rid of bloating by eating slower and drinking through a straw.
• Health conditions such as Crohn’s sickness, ulcerative colitis or even diabetes.
• Intolerance to certain foods such as lactose (dairy) and gluten (wheat).
• Artificial sweeteners in gums or confections. xylitol, sorbitol, and mannitol can cause excess gas that leads to bloating.
• Constipation build-ups make it difficult to release gas and can lead to bloating.
10 Quick Ways to Get Rid of Bloating and Gas
There is a number of fast and effective methods to defeat bloating. Here are 10 of the best:
1. Peppermint Tea
A humble peppermint tea can work wonders for bloating and gas. Menthol is a powerful antispasmodic, it provides fast, relief to digestive tracts. It’s can even be used to help reduce anxiety and stress! Have a mug after each meal to reboot your digestive system.
2. Ginger Tea
Ginger tea is great for soothing bloating, heartburn and general queasiness. The gingerols and shgaols within the natural root can unwind a tightened digestive tract. This helps dislodge trapped gas and prevent further build-ups. Supercharge your ginger tea with lemon juice and honey, drink it as often as needed.
3. Anise Seed
The natural antispasmodic qualities of anise will relax your digestive system and quickly alleviate cramps and pains. Its carminative nature expels trapped gas and reduces swelling. Make a mug of tea using one tablespoon of ground anise seeds. Drink before and after meals for maximum results.
4. Baking Soda & Lemon Juice
When these ingredients are combined they create a highly effective stomach settling solution. Start by juicing one lemon into a glass, then add half a teaspoon of baking soda and mix in water. Drink this fizzing solution every morning before eating breakfast to get rid of bloating.
5. Activated Charcoal
Activated charcoal reduces gas, bloating and even relieves drug overdoses! It’s believed this highly porous substance traps chemicals, gas, and excess bacteria as it travels through the digestive tract. Try supplementing activated charcoal daily, either in powdered or capsule form.
6. Water
Water is an essential element within our body. It facilitates a number of key bodily functions, including the digestion of food. Make sure you’re consuming at least 8 glasses of water daily. To combat bloating and gas, try upping your water intake. Spread your consumption throughout the day.
7. Garlic
Garlic is a powerful natural healer, it’s anti-inflammatory and helps stimulate the gastric tract. Use it to boost your digestive power and squeeze out excess stomach gas. Purposefully add garlic to your dishes to help get rid of bloating. Fresh garlic beats ground garlic for potency.
8. Fennel Seeds
The healing herb has a number of medical benefits, including, relieving heartburn, acid reflux, and trapped gas. Mix broiled fennel seeds with a glass of buttermilk to help relieve bloating. Drink this twice per day to quickly calm down flatulence and queasiness.
9. Cinnamon
Cinnamon can boost digestion, providing fast, effective relief from stomach gas and aches. Mix ½ teaspoon of cinnamon powder with a glass of milk or water and mix well. Honey can also be added for a smoother taste. Drink this daily to relieve bloating and prevent future build up.
10. Get Moving!
The mere act of physical exercise can help greatly by releasing trapped gas and up-regulating the digestive system. Try going for a brief 10-minute walk after eating, or swimming for 30 minutes in the mornings.
Featured photo credit: femme run via flickr.com
