Dietary changes, medication and folk remedies all contribute to relieving the problem of gas and bloating. Gas that does not exit the body through belching or flatulence can build up in the stomach and cause bloating. Gas and bloating may also be accompanied by abdominal pain, so relief is very important for people seeking remedies.
Liquids
Carbonated water promotes belching to relieve gas, Health911.com notes. However, carbonated beverages can also contribute to gas and bloating, so carbonated water is recommended in small doses when belching and bloating are immediate problems. Chamomile, peppermint and fennel teas help expel gas in the digestive tract. People can make any of these herbal teas by pouring a cup of boiling water over one to two teaspoons of the dried herbs, covering and steeping for 15 minutes before straining. Chewing on the dried peppermint leaves may also help remove gas from the stomach and intestines. Herbal teas help reduce feelings of stress and anxiety, which are often causes of gas and bloating. Mix 1 tsp. of the herb ginger with 1 tsp. of lime juice may also reduce gas and bloating.
Medicine
Over-the-counter supplements include digestive enzymes that help digest carbohydrates to prevent gas, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Liquid and tablet digestive aids help digest the sugar in beans and many vegetables to reduce gas and bloating. Lactase enzyme tablets help digest foods that contain lactose for people who are lactose intolerant. Lactose-reduced dairy products are also good for people who get gas and bloating from lactose. Doctors can prescribe medication for people who have chronic problems with gas and bloating. Prescription medicine is often used for people who suffer from irritable bowel syndrome.
Changing Diet
Controlling the diet can reduce gas and bloating when people find out what foods cause their digestive problems. Fatty foods are common offenders because the fat delays the stomach from emptying contents and increases the feeling of fullness, according to the Mayo Clinic. Other foods contain carbohydrates that cause gas. They include baked beans, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, apples, peaches and pears. Certain foods bother particular people more than others, so it may be a matter of eliminating those foods from the diet. People may want to avoid chewing gum and sucking on hard candy, which encourage excessive air swallowing. Swallowing too much air can cause gas. Smoking may also be related to bloating, the Mayo Clinic says. Smoking promotes the intake of excess air.
