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How To Relieve Gas

Are you having pains from intestinal gas? Maybe you ate too many gas-producing foods too close together. Knowing what caused your gas pains isn't going to help, you just want to find relief as fast as you can! Luckily, there are some things that you can do to help to ease your discomfort from gas and get on with your day. For the occasional bout of gas, these tips can help you relieve the pressure. If your pain is severe and persistent, or with any symptoms of infection, fever, or rectal bleeding, seek medical attention immediately.

1. Probiotics for Gas and Bloating

Probiotics may help with digestion and reduce excessive gas. Probiotics are live microorganisms, mostly "good" bacteria, similar to the bacteria found in the human gut. They're available as dietary supplements, but a number of foods also have natural probiotics, including:

  • Yogurt
  • Kefir
  • Tempeh
  • Kimchi

2. Peppermint

Studies have shown that peppermint tea or supplements may reduce symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, including gas. But, make sure to talk to your doctor before you start using supplements. Peppermint can interfere with iron absorption and certain medications. It may also cause heartburn in some people. Supplements will have directions about how much you should take on the bottle. For peppermint tea, drink one cup before each meal for best results.

3. If Possible, Move Your Bowels

If you are able to have a bowel movement, do it! Don't wait until you are in the comfort of your own home. Having a bowel movement will help in two ways. The first is that you will speed up the movement of the muscles lining your large intestine, which will help to encourage the gas to make its way out of your system. A bowel movement also empties the rectum of any stored stool, freeing up the passage of the trapped intestinal gas.

4. Lactase Supplements

Lactose is a protein in milk. People with lactose intolerance can’t digest this protein. Lactase is the enzyme the body uses to break down lactose. Lactase supplements are available over the counter and can help your body digest lactose.

5. Chew Fennel Seeds

Fennel seeds have a reputation for reducing intestinal gas. A safe amount appears to be approximately one teaspoon. Try chewing some seeds and assess if they are helpful for you. There is mixed information regarding the safety of ingesting extra fennel when pregnant or breastfeeding. If that applies to you, it would be best to play it on the safe side and choose an alternative gas-relieving option.

6. Over-the-Counter Gas Remedies That May Help

If gas doesn't move quickly enough through the digestive system, it can cause bloating and discomfort. A few changes to your daily routine and habits can bring relief from gas and bloating. These behaviors should help decrease bloating:

  • Eating slowly, and chewing your food thoroughly
  • Eating smaller meals, more frequently
  • Sitting up straight after a meal
  • Walking after a meal

7. Move Your Body

Gentle exercise can be helpful in easing the gas pain. Walking is the easiest option as you can do it practically anytime, anywhere. Walking helps to relax the muscles in your abdomen, with the effect of helping trapped gas to make its escape. Yoga is another great option if you have space and the privacy. Several yoga poses have been associated with easing the passage of intestinal gas.

A doctor will look at the symptoms, the patient's medical history, their diet, and what medications they are taking. Diagnostic testing ranges from blood tests to imaging studies. These can show signs of inflammation in the digestive tract. Gas is a normal part of everyday life, but it should not always be painful, and it should not limit a person's activities. For people with excessive gas, help is out there.