A bloating stomach is something all of us face at some point in our lives. Studies show that an average adult passes gas between 13 to 21 times a day. The production of gas in the digestive tract is a normal process. However, you know you have a problem if there is a buildup of gas in the intestine, causing pain and discomfort.

Causes of gas and bloating
Overeating can cause bloating, so can swallowing air while eating food or drinking water. You tend to swallow air if you are anxious or if you have the habit of eating too fast. Swallowing air while drinking through a straw is a possibility too. Gas and bloating can also be caused due to other underlying health conditions like ulcers and excessive bacteria in the intestines. Certain kinds of foods cause bloating in some people, like spicy foods, processed foods, and dairy products. Constipation can also cause bloating. Smoking and excessive gum chewing are other causes of bloating.

Getting rid of gas and bloating

Being food conscious
Changing your food habits into a more healthier one can help a great deal in achieving bloating stomach relief. Common foods associated with gas are spicy foods, high fiber foods, and foods with high fat. Carbonated beverages and food items like beans, broccoli, and lentils also cause bloating. Artificial food ingredients like sorbitol and maltitol produce gas in some people.

Peppermint tea
Peppermint contains crucial oils and menthol which has an antispasmodic effect that soothes the muscles of the digestive tract. Its medicinal effect also soothes anxiety and apprehension.

Ginger tea
Ginger has a positive effect on the stomach and is considered to relieve many stomach related problems like heartburn, bloating, etc. It has two important chemicals”gingerols and shogaols”that help in releasing accumulated gas, thereby providing bloating stomach relief

Chamomile tea
Chamomile tea acts on accumulated gas in the intestines and eases its release. This is most effective when taken with hot water, lemon juice, and honey.

Clove
Clove is a herb used in cooking that can bring relief from bloating. Clove oil is also known to relieve symptoms of gas and bloating.

Pumpkin and fennel seeds
These seeds are known to work as an aid to release gas and bloating due to their antispasmodic effect.

Water and physical activity
Taking plenty of water and doing a brisk walk after food helps in releasing gas that is accumulated in intestines. Drinking up to 8 glasses of water helps prevent constipation and bloating.

Also, doing regular exercise strengthens the stomach and intestinal muscles which in turn avoids bloating and gas accumulation. Going for long walks or jogging on a regular basis prevents accumulation of gas in the stomach and intestines and facilitates in their release.