Bloating is a common experience where one feels tightness or fullness in their belly. According to the Cleveland Clinic website, the sensation associated with bloating can range from mildly uncomfortable to intensely painful.
A common cause of bloating is excess gas in the digestive tract. It might be from simple things like eating too much or too fast, or more complex issues, such as constipation, inflammatory bowel disease, or a food intolerance.
While bloating generally resolves itself after a while, for some people it can be a frequent problem that may require remedies to be dealt with. Taking to Instagram on June 4, Dr Kunal Sood, a Maryland-based physician in Anesthesiology and Interventional Pain Medicine, shared 5 such remedies.
1. Peppermint oil
Peppermint oil is the essential oil extracted from the leaves of the peppermint plant. The oil contains menthol, which helps relax intestinal smooth muscle and may reduce visceral hypersensitivity, shared Dr Sood. “This can help gas move through the digestive tract more easily and reduce sensations of bloating, pressure, and discomfort, particularly in IBS (irritable bowel syndrome).”
2. Psyllium husk
Psyllium husk, also known as isabgol, is an excellent source of soluble fibre that absorbs water and promotes more regular bowel movements. “Unlike many rapidly fermented fibres, it tends to produce less gas while helping reduce constipation-related bloating and supporting short-chain fatty acid production,” noted the physician.
3. Probiotics
Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that support the healthy gut microbiome and ensure gut and overall health. According to Dr Sood, “Certain probiotic strains may help improve microbial balance, intestinal transit, barrier function, and low-grade inflammation. Some strains have been shown to reduce bloating and abdominal distension, although benefits are highly strain-specific.”
4. Digestive enzymes
Digestive enzymes play a major role in ensuring less gas formation in the gut. “Digestive enzymes help break down carbohydrates, fats, and proteins before they reach the colon. By reducing the amount of undigested food available for bacterial fermentation, they may help reduce gas production, bloating, fullness, and post-meal discomfort,” stated Dr Sood.
5. Ginger tea
Ginger is a whole spice that is extremely beneficial to gut health. “Ginger contains compounds that support gastric motility and gastric emptying,” noted Dr Sood. “By helping food move through the stomach more efficiently, ginger may reduce post-meal fullness, pressure, indigestion, and upper digestive bloating.”
In the end, Dr Sood highlighted that bloating is not one condition with one solution. While peppermint oil, psyllium, probiotics, digestive enzymes, and ginger may all help, they work through different mechanisms and are most effective when matched to the underlying cause. Therefore, it is better to consult with a doctor before starting any supplements.
Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
This report is based on user-generated content from social media. HT.com has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them.
