Gas can be more than an inconvenience--it can be very painful when it builds up in the digestive tract and causes abdominal pain and cramping. In addition, gas can be downright embarrassing. While there are a number of over-the-counter medications to help ease abdominal gas, pain and bloating, sometimes you may want to consider a more natural method of alleviating gas.
Try Herbs and Supplements
Supplements are available to help break down the foods that you eat and alleviate gas pain. Digestive enzymes, like lactase, help to naturally break down gas-causing foods and eliminate gas. Chamomile, ginger and mint are all natural remedies that help the body digest foods and ease gas. Try these herbs in a tea to help soothe abdominal gas pain. Cayenne pepper is another natural remedy for gas pain, as it boosts the production of acids in the stomach and aids in digestion. Sprinkle the spice on your food or consider a cayenne pepper supplement.
Watch What You Eat
One of the most common causes of abdominal gas is the food that you eat. A number of foods cause uncomfortable gas, including many vegetables like cabbage, asparagus and broccoli, says the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Whole-grain foods are also culprits behind gas, along with fruits, beans and milk. To alleviate gas, it's best to avoid these foods as much as possible.
Watch How You Eat
Gulping down a huge meal can allow gas to build, resulting in abdominal pain. Try treating yourself to a couple of small meals several times a day rather than sitting down to three large meals, suggests the Mayo Clinic. It's also important to take time to relax and enjoy your food, rather than eating in a hurry or when you're stressed, to help alleviate gas pain.
Stop Swallowing Air
Ingesting too much air can cause abdominal gas, so take care not to swallow anything but food and drink. That means avoiding chewing gum (which can cause gas anyway) and smoking. Also, eat and drink slowly to help prevent too much air in the digestive tract and ease gas.
