Home Remedy for Bloated Stomach
Written by Priyanka Agarwal, Writer at Hola Health
Medically reviewed by Dr Nelson Lau, MBBS FRACGP, GP & Digital Health Specialist
Contents
Causes of bloating
Bloating can be caused by several factors, including:- Swallowing air while eating or drinking too quickly, chewing gum, or drinking carbonated beverages
- Eating disorders
- Digestive issues or poor digestion
- Constipation
- Diet choices or food sensitivities, such as lactose or gluten intolerance
- Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO)
- Bowel obstruction, often involving vomiting or constipation
- Psychological stress
- High fiber diet
- Hormonal fluctuations especially in women during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause
- Certain medical conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or gastrointestinal infections.
- Fluid retention in the abdomen
- Imbalances in gut microbiome
Lifestyle and food choices that can lead bloated stomach
A bloated stomach can be caused by various causes, including lifestyle, and eating habits. Here are a few common contributors:Food options:
- While fibre is necessary for digestion, consuming too much fibre foods at once, particularly insoluble fibre found in vegetables such as cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower, can result in bloating.
- Carbonated drinks, such as soda and sparkling water, may release gas into the digestive tract, causing bloating.
- Artificial sweeteners, such as sorbitol, xylitol, and mannitol, are widely used in sugar-free gums and sweets and can produce bloating and gas.
- Some people have problems digesting lactose, the sugar found in dairy products, which causes bloating and discomfort.
- Fatty meals can impede digestion, leaving you feeling full and bloated.
- Beans and legumes are high in fibre and are complex carbs, which can induce gas and bloating in certain individuals.
Lifestyle choices:
- Eating too fast might cause bloating. It is crucial to chew your meal fully and eat slowly.
- Smoking causes ingested air, which contributes to bloating.
- Dehydration can induce constipation, which can result in bloating.
- Lack of exercise may cause irregular bowel movements and promote bloating.
- Stress can impair digestion and lead to bloating. Practices such as mindfulness and relaxation methods may be beneficial.
What reduces bloating fast? 12 home remedies
Reducing bloating at home frequently entails making lifestyle changes and attempting homemade remedies that might help relieve discomfort. Here are a few home remedies to consider:- Peppermint tea: Peppermint contains natural anti-inflammatory effects that can help relax digestive system muscles, decreasing bloating and gas production. Drink a cup of peppermint tea after each meal.
- Ginger: Ginger is recognised for its digestive characteristics, which can aid with bloating. You can consume ginger tea or chew a tiny piece of raw ginger root.
- Warm lemon water: Combining warm water with fresh lemon juice will aid digestion and ease bloating. Lemon also has a modest diuretic effect, which can help minimise water retention.
- Chamomile tea: Chamomile tea contains anti-inflammatory and gas-relieving effects, which help to reduce bloating and relax the digestive tract.
- Fennel seeds: Fennel seeds are commonly used as a traditional treatment for bloating and gas. A teaspoon of fennel seeds can be chewed after meals or boiled in hot water to make tea.
- Activated charcoal: Activated charcoal can help absorb excess gas in the digestive tract, hence relieving bloating. It is available in supplement form but use it with caution and according to the dose guidelines.
- Probiotics: Eating probiotic-rich foods like yoghurt or taking probiotic supplements might help support healthy gut bacteria and digestion, thereby decreasing bloating.
- Avoid carbonated drinks: Avoiding fizzy drinks and carbonated beverages can help you avoid bloating by reducing your consumption of extra gas.
- Hydration: Drink lots of water throughout the day to flush out toxins and avoid constipation, which can cause bloating.
- Avoid trigger items: Determine and avoid items that frequently cause bloating in your diet, such as beans, cruciferous vegetables (such as broccoli and cauliflower), dairy products (if lactose intolerant), and artificial sweeteners.
- Eat smaller meals: Eating smaller, more frequent meals rather than large meals might assist in avoiding overloading the digestive system and bloating.
- Exercise: Gentle activity, such as walking or yoga, can aid digestion and alleviate gas and bloating.
Long-term solutions for bloating at home
To reduce bloating at home eventually -- Make dietary modifications such as recognising trigger foods (such as beans and dairy),
- Eating smaller, more frequent meals, and digesting food properly.
- Reduce your consumption of fizzy beverages, fatty meals, and excess salt, while gradually boosting fiber from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Stay hydrated, exercise frequently, reduce stress, and get enough sleep.
- Consume probiotic-rich foods and engage in mindful eating.
When to consult a doctor?
It is advisable to consult a doctor for bloating if it becomes persistent or severe and starts interfering with day-to-day activities. If bloating is accompanied by diarrhoea or constipation, vomiting, persistent abdominal pain, blood in stool, or unintended weight loss, it is important to seek medical advice. Additionally, if bloating is severe, occurs suddenly and or if you are above 50 years old, it is imperative to consult a healthcare practitioner to rule out conditions such as gastrointestinal disorders or bowel obstruction.To discuss these symptoms, speak to an Australian registered online doctor within 15 minutes without leaving your home. Book your telehealth appointment now.
Can a telehealth doctor help with bloated stomach?
Yes, a telehealth doctor can help with a bloated stomach. Through telehealth services, doctors can assess your symptoms comprehensively, discuss your medical history, and offer guidance on managing bloating. They may suggest lifestyle adjustments or recommend over-the-counter medications if needed. They can advise you on the next steps or refer you to a specialist for additional assessment. Telehealth consultations are remarkably convenient for problems like bloating as they allow you to seek medical advice promptly from the comfort of your home.Frequently Asked Questions
Does drinking water help with bloating?
Yes, drinking water can help with bloating. Drinking enough water supports digestion and mitigated constipation, thereby reducing bloating. Additionally, water can help flush out excess sodium and reduce water retention, which helps to alleviate bloating symptoms. However, it is important to avoid overconsumption of carbonated beverages and drink water steadily for optimal digestion.Does bloating cause weight gain?
Bloating itself does not cause actual weight gain. Bloating typically results from excessive gas or fluid retention in the abdomen, which can make you feel heavy or look swollen, but it is not caused by an increase in body fat or muscle mass. However, bloating may cause fluctuations in your scale weight due to water retention, but this is not a permanent elevation in body weight.Does lemon water help with bloating?
Lemon water is often promoted as a remedy for bloating due to its potential to function as a mild diuretic and its capacity to enhance digestion. The acidity of lemon juice promotes the production of digestive juices which helps to alleviate bloating and gas. Also, drinking lemon water may aid in hydration, essential for maintaining healthy digestion and reducing water retention that can result in bloating. While individual reactions may differ, incorporating lemon water in your daily routine may offer relief from occasional bloating symptoms.In conclusion, whether your belly’s swelling up unexpectedly or expanding uncomfortably, these insights into the causes of bloating can help you achieve better digestive flow. With a touch of nutritional know-how and a dash of lifestyle finesse, you will soon relish life with a lighter, happier stomach. Here’s to feeling light-hearted and cheerful!
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This content is created for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition. For emergencies please immediately contact 000.
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Get affordable healthcare on your terms, with quick access to qualified, Australian-registered telehealth doctors & health practitioners, 24/7, 365 days a year. No more searching for ‘doctors near me‘ – Hola connects you instantly.
Address: 79 St Georges Terrace, Perth WA 6000
For urgent medical help & in case of emergency,
call 000.
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