Let’s be straightforward. I’m writing about gas and bloating. It’s not the hottest topic. No one wants to talk about it but we all deal with it. So shall we?
Here are nine ways to naturally get rid of gas and bloating—for both immediate relief, and how to prevent it going forward.
For Immediate Relief
1. Ginger
Along with gas and bloating, ginger helps with inflammation in the body. Ginger is great because you can simply cut it up and throw it in some hot water with honey. Or, you can take it as a daily supplement. You can also cook or bake with it. The possibilities are endless and it does wonderful things for your body.
2. Peppermint Tea
Because it contains the essential oil menthol, peppermint tea soothes the stomach and eases gas pains. Peppermint is ancient for its “soothing” aspects. It’s best to drink at night for its relaxing aroma.
#SpoonTip: Drink a cup of peppermint after dinner to help ease digestion. Add some honey or agave to sweeten things up.
3. Chamomile Tea
Although peppermint tea would be the first choice for gas pains, chamomile is best for bloating and indigestion caused from acid reflux (or simply eating too fast). I’m constantly drinking chamomile for my acid reflux, especially at bedtime.
4. Lemon Water
It’s good for many things, not just gas and bloating. It can be made warm or cold, whichever you prefer, but drinking warm lemon water, especially in the morning, can help flush your digestive system and rehydrate your body.
Being Proactive
5. Magnesium
A recent addition to my daily supplements, magnesium increases the body’s overall muscle function, aka “moving things along,” which is one of the main reasons for gas and bloating. While helping your digestive system, magnesium is also good for nerves and anxiety, aches and pains, as well as migraines. For anyone who hasn’t tried it, I highly recommend it. It has changed my life.
6. Starches
Pay attention to how many starches you’re eating in a given day. Yes, as a college student, it’s not always easy to stay on top of what you’re eating, but if you suffer from gas and bloating, you may need to clue in.
Gas forms in our large intestine when our body breaks down flour, potatoes and other starches. Since May, I’ve avoided gluten (and most starches in general) in my diet and I’ve found that I’ve felt a lot less bloated. Try to maintain a balanced diet.
#SpoonTip: Avoid eating a big starchy meal before bed. You’ll wake up feeling less bloated.
7. Probiotics
It’s so easy to incorporate a probiotic into your daily routine and it has so many beneficial qualities. I take Align, which helps to “fortify your digestive system with healthy bacteria 24/7.” The package is even labeled day-by-day, so you can easily keep track if you miss it. What ever probiotic you choose, they’re all beneficial and help manage gas and bloating.
8. Activated Charcoal
I haven’t tried it myself, but I’ve heard it does wonders. From my understanding, it basically absorbs all the “bad” things in your body, including gas, according to Dr. Axe.
9. Exercise
The best way to prevent any gas pains, bloating, and/or digestive upset is to exercise. Whether it’s an hour each day, or 15 minutes each day, it makes a huge difference. If you suffer from excessive gas and bloating, try to change up your exercise routine. I find that running helps most with managing my anxiety, stress and digestive issues.