Home Remedies for Bloating

Home Remedies for Bloating
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When gas builds up within the stomach, it can lead to bloating. When a person is bloated, she might also experience some abdominal discomfort. Passing the gas can usually help alleviate the symptoms. Although there are medications, like simethicone, used to get rid of bloating and gas, natural remedies can be used instead.

Ginger

Ginger is a common household herb that can relieve gas and bloating. According to the GrannyMed website, it has the ability to stimulate the production of saliva in the body and contains digestive enzymes. Add a teaspoon of ginger to hot tea or a cold beverage to alleviate your symptoms. Ginger can cause diarrhea, stomach pain and heartburn.

Parsley

Parsley is an herb that is commonly used as a digestive aid. To help reduce bloating that occurs after meals, you can consume a small amount of the raw leaves. You should not eat more than 2 oz. of parsley at a single sitting, since it can act as a laxative and cause stomach pain and diarrhea.

Food Avoidance

Certain foods are difficult to digest and can cause bloating in a person. Changing your diet and avoiding these foods can alleviate symptoms without the need for medication. According to the MayoClinic, the following foods are commonly associated with excess gas and bloating: beans, broccoli, cauliflower, carbonated drinks, salad greens, baked beans and Brussels sprouts.

Better Eating Habits

Changing the way that you eat is a natural way to relieve bloating and gas. Not chewing your food thoroughly puts extra stress on the digestive tract and leads to excessive gas. Eating quickly, drinking through a straw and chewing gum can cause you to gulp in too much air and cause bloating. Making yourself burp by swallowing excess air can give you a bloated feeling.

References

Article reviewed by demand53656 Last updated on: Mar 23, 2010

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