Swallowing air while eating can lead to uncomfortable bouts of belching, bloating and abdominal gas. Everyone swallows some air at mealtimes during the normal process of chewing and swallowing food, but certain bad habits can significantly increase air swallowing and trigger negative symptoms soon after eating. Symptoms associated with air swallowing can be improved with a few lifestyle changes. Consult your doctor if you experience severe gas problems or pain during or after eating.
Step 1
Drink a glass of water before you eat to curb your hunger. This will help prevent overeating and will make it easier for you to take your time chewing and swallowing, two benefits that should reduce the amount of air you swallow while eating.
Step 2
Chew your food carefully and pause between bites. This will not only reduce air swallowing, it may help you control your weight by giving your body opportunity to recognize fullness before you overeat.
Step 3
Keep talking to a minimum during meals. Talking increases air swallowing, especially if you are also trying to eat at the same time.
Step 4
Sip beverages instead of gulping them, and abstain from drinking carbonated beverages whenever possible. Drinking through a straw can also sometimes trigger air swallowing.
Step 5
Choose foods that are soft and easy to swallow if your problem with gas, bloating or belching is significant. Foods that are difficult to swallow, become stuck in your throat or cause throat irritation trigger additional swallowing per bite. This increases the amount of air you swallow. Some foods that may trigger extra swallowing include spicy foods, dry rice and potato chips.
Step 6
Visit your dentist if you suffer from tooth decay, have jaw or mouth pain or wear dentures. Poorly fitting dentures can cause excess air swallowing during meals, as can improper bite and other dental problems.
