Causes and Remedies of Bloating?
February 21, 2022
Abdominal Bloating occurs due to accumulation of air or gas in the gastrointestinal tract. Feeling bloated is often described as a feeling of being too full, tight or swollen which makes it super uncomfortable. One’s abdomen may be swollen (distended), hard and painful and one can experience pain, excessive gas (flatulence), burping, belching and abdominal rumblings and gurgles.
Bloating can be experienced by both adults as well as children. Bloating occurs due to gas accumulation, altered gut motility, impaired gas transit, abnormal abdominal reflux, visceral hypersensitivity, food malabsorption and constipation.
Common causes of bloating include:
Gas and Air:
Buildup of gas and air in the GIT during consumption of food may result in bloating. Multiple scenarios cause bloating when one is eating food as it is often accompanied with swallowing air as well when you are eating or drinking. This occurs when one tends to eat or drink fast or is chewing gum or smoking. Delayed elimination of the accumulated air also leads to bloating and flatulence.
Medical Causes:
Bloating may also stem from medical conditions like irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, food intolerance, eating disorders and also mental health factors like anxiety, depression.
Serious Causes:
Abdominal bloating can also be a symptom of a serious condition, for example: ascites: accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity which is an underlying pathological symptom of cancer, liver disease, kidney failure or congestive heart failure. Food intolerances like lactose intolerance and gluten sensitivity can also cause bloating.
Remedies for Bloating:
The first and the most basic step to combat bloating is to adopt lifestyle changes and achieve balanced weight. If you are overweight,
– avoid chewing gums, smoking and carbonated beverages.
– avoid foods that cause gas such as vegetables like cabbage, beans and lentils.
– eat slowly and avoid drinking through a straw.
Here are certain foods that help ease bloating.
Green tea:
An excellent option to help you stay hydrated and prevent fluid retention in the body, green tea is an antioxidant rich drink which neutralizes the effects and inflammation induced by harmful free radicals in the body. Green tea is known to consist of a considerable amount of caffeine, a compound which stimulates movement across the digestive tract and supports regularity. This helps reduce bloating.
Lemons:
The classic lemon juice does the trick in relieving a bloated stomach. This is because the acidity of lemon juice is similar to that of stomach’s digestive juices and this helps relieve bloating and other symptoms of indigestion. In addition to this it also ensures one is well hydrated and the acidity helps things move faster along the GI tract.
Ginger:
Ginger is an herb that is known for its potential to soothe digestive disorders. It helps accelerate the emptying of the stomach which eases bloating. There is an enzyme called zingibain which aids in protein breakdown which in-turn supports healthy digestion. It also has a relaxing effect on the intestines, reduces inflammation which reduces the bloat and gas one experiences.
Turmeric:
A staple ingredient added to a variety of Indian curries, soups and side dishes has a compound called curcumin which possesses anti-inflammatory properties. This compound improves gut health and reduces symptoms of gas, bloating and constipation.
Peppermint tea:
Having a cup of mint tea after dinner is a staple in many cultures. It has been shown to decrease inflammation and help a range of digestive conditions. It specifically prevents muscle spasms in the stomach and intestines which eventually prevent bloating.
It is advised to consult your doctor if lifestyle changes and dietary interventions do not relieve abdominal bloating.
