Gas and bloating is caused by bacteria that ferments undigested sugars in the digestive tract. Conventional treatments for this type of indigestion include over-the-counter antacids and antigas medications. Additionally, a holistic approach may also provide some relief. Check with your health care provider before trying herbs or other natural therapies.
Diet
Certain foods tend to cause gas and bloating when not digested properly. The main culprits are whole grains, raw fruits and vegetables, dried beans and other legumes, as well as some dairy products. Try cutting back on some of these foods, at least until the gas and discomfort subsides. Identify foods that tend to cause gas, such as broccoli, cauliflower, apples, whole-wheat bread and bran cereals. Also try eating several smaller meals throughout the day instead of two or three large ones, and chew your food thoroughly.
Enzymes
Enzyme supplements may also help aid in digestion and relieve gas and bloating. Some digestive enzymes can commonly be found over the counter in most supermarkets and drug stores. Lactaid is a product which contains lactase, the enzyme needed to break down naturally-occurring sugars in milk. Beano is a product that contains a natural enzyme used to break down carbohydrates in the digestive system. Each of these can be taken with meals to both treat and prevent gas and bloating. Check with your medical doctor before trying these supplements.
Herbs
When most people think of holistic medicine, herbs come to mind. A few herbs are used by natural health practitioners specifically to treat gas and indigestion. Fennel seed, a culinary spice used in many Indian dishes, is also used as a medicinal herb. According to AnniesRemedy.com, fennel is naturally carmanative. It eases digestion and helps relieve gas and bloating. Spearmint is another time-honored herbal remedy for gas and indigestion. Both can be made into herbal tea and taken at the onset of symptoms. Check with your medical doctor before using herbs for medicinal purposes.
Prevention
Prevention is often the best medicine. A healthy digestive system begins with a healthy diet. Eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, lightly cooked, along with grains, legumes and lean meats. Avoid fried foods, caffeine, smoking and other unhealthy habits which can interfere with digestion.
While the occasional bout of gas may be annoying, it is not unusual or dangerous. However, chronic gas and discomfort may indicate a more serious condition. Talk to your health care provider if your symptoms are not relieved with conventional or holistic treatments, or if they are persistent.
