Gas is a normal part of the digestive process. Throughout the day, our bodies release between 12 and 25 farts, but when they accumulate in excess, they can cause bloating, abdominal pressure, and a general feeling of discomfort. Fortunately, there are natural remedies to relieve and prevent stomach gas.
Several factors can increase flatulence, including eating certain foods or eating too quickly. In these cases, knowing what you can do to aid digestion and reduce excess air in your abdomen will help you feel better. Here are some home remedies to relieve this discomfort.
1. Go for a walk after eating
Although going for a walk is the last thing a person usually thinks about after eating a hamburger, the truth is that a short walk of 10-15 minutes is one of the best ways to stimulate intestinal transit.
If you prefer not to leave the house, avoid lying down immediately after eating, as this will only bloat your stomach. Instead, spend a couple of minutes stretching or doing gentle movements, such as twisting your torso or lifting your knees to your chest.
2. Prepare yourself a chamomile infusion
Several studies have shown that chamomile has antispasmodic and relaxing effects on the gastrointestinal system, helping to relieve discomfort such as bloating and stomach gas.
Something as simple as drinking chamomile tea after a meal aids digestion and relieves feelings of heaviness. Just use a teaspoon of dried flowers or your favorite tea bag in a cup of hot water and drink the tea while it’s still warm.
3. Practice diaphragmatic breathing
Many people experience digestive problems when they go through periods of anxiety or stress. In these cases, practicing deep breathing exercises is a great alternative.
According to experts, inflating and contracting the diaphragm with slow breaths for 5 minutes reduces accumulated tension and relieves gastroesophageal reflux, conditions that increase the accumulation of stomach gas.
4. Perform an abdominal massage
If you feel bloated after a large meal and want to release the pressure, a good massage is the solution. Lie on your back and, using both hands, begin massaging your abdomen with gentle, clockwise circular motions for 5-10 minutes.
5. Avoid ultra-processed foods
Foods high in carbohydrates, fats, sugars, and additives slow down digestion and disrupt the gastrointestinal balance, causing gas and bloating. So try to reduce your consumption of these foods and opt for fresh, natural options.
6. Try peppermint oil
Peppermint oil is one of the most studied natural remedies for relieving and preventing stomach gas. In patients with irritable bowel syndrome, its use under medical supervision helps reduce bloating and cramps, thanks to its antispasmodic effect on the intestines.
When is it necessary to consult a doctor?
Many of us don’t pay much attention to occasional burping and flatulence, but when stomach gas starts causing discomfort daily, it could indicate a more serious problem.
If you experience intense and prolonged abdominal pain, begin to notice blood in your stool, or suffer from abnormal bloating after eating certain foods, it is best to seek professional help.
The natural remedies mentioned above can be very effective, but if you notice that your stomach gas is out of control, a timely diagnosis will help you treat the problem at its root and improve your quality of life.
