Natural Remedies to Combat Gas

Gas is a normal part of our digestion process. The average adult passes gas between 13 and 21 times a day. But if gas builds up or our stomach gets blocked then the intestines are unable to expel it. It will lead to pain, discomfort, and irritation.

Gas pain, bloating, flatulence, and indigestion can be caused by anything that also causes diarrhea and constipation. The general causes of gas include overeating, eating the wrong foods, smoking cigarettes, or swallowing air while you eat and drink. While most gas related issues can be tackled at home, you may need to consult a doctor if the problem persists.

The primary cause of gas is diet. To understand why gas is caused, you need to know the workings of your stomach. Food is digested primarily in your small intestine. The undigested part is fermented in your colon with bacteria, fungi, and yeast. This process forms methane and hydrogen, which is expelled as gas or flatulence. Usually, the easiest way of curing gas is to eliminate or add certain foods to your diet. The most common foods that cause gas are-

• Beans and lentils
• Cheese or dairy products
• High-fiber food
• Fried food
• Spicy food
• Carbonated beverages
• Maltitol, sorbitol, or sugar-free products
• High-fat foods
• Cauliflower
• Broccoli
• Brussels sprouts
• Garlic
• Onion

Try subtracting these foods from your diet for a week and see if you notice any changes. If the problem still persists, then you can try the natural remedies mentioned below.

Chamomile Tea- Chamomile tea helps with indigestion, gas, and bloating. Drinking chamomile tea before meals and before bedtime can reduce symptoms for people suffering from gas. Drink it 1-2 hours before sleeping. Some brands of chamomile tea may contain caffeine so be careful as it can delay sleep.

Apple Cider Vinegar- Dilute a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar in water and drink it first thing in the morning. You can take it up to three times a day as long as you need for the symptoms to reduce. Apple cider vinegar can damage the enamel of your teeth so use a straw while drinking or brush your teeth 15-20 minutes after drinking it.

Peppermint- Taking peppermint tea or supplements can reduce symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. It also helps with gas and bloating. Peppermint tea is available in stores and can be had at any time with hot water. Peppermint can cause interference with iron absorption and certain medications. Consult a doctor before taking peppermint supplements or consuming it regularly.

Exercise- A sedentary lifestyle can cause several health issues including indigestion, constipation, and gas. Exercising regularly can help release trapped gas and reduce discomfort. Walk after meals to avoid gas and gas related pain. Cardio such as walking, running, or skipping can also help cure and prevent gas. Yoga is also a great activity for people suffering from stomach related issues.

Cloves- Cloves or clove oil can help reduce bloating and gas by producing digestive enzymes. Add two to five drops to an 8-ounce glass of water and drink after meals.

Lactase supplements- Lactase is the enzyme the body uses to break down lactose. Lactose is a sugar in milk. People with lactose intolerance can’t digest this sugar. Lactase supplements are available over the counter and can help your body digest milk and milk products. Many people build a tolerance for lactose over the years but it does cause digestive pressure and other gastric issues.

These remedies are alternatives to medicines that are available over the counter and should be taken in moderation. If you suffer from gas regularly and don’t see any improvement despite dietary changes then its time to overhaul your lifestyle. Gas can also be caused to due the way you chew and consume your food. Sit down while eating your meals and chew them slowly. Drink water before or after your meals not during. Cut down on sodas, colas, and other sugary drinks. Reduce smoking cigarettes. Exercise regularly and take walks after each meal. You can even walk in your office or room for ten minutes after meals to keep your system moving. Restrict heavy, oily, and spicy foods as much as you can.

Gas is often a symptom of other severe diseases or illnesses. Diabetes, irritable bowel syndrome, lactose intolerance, obesity, Peptic ulcers, etc are some diseases that have gas as a recurring symptom. Inform your doctor if you feel you suffer from excess gas and bloating. They can run tests to check if the gas is indicative of something serious. Your system also changes as you grow older and foods that didn’t bother you earlier start to become a problem. It is imperative to understand your body and its signals when dealing with gas.