Bloating is a condition that affects a large number of people. In fact, everyone can suffer from a bloated stomach at one point or another. In order to stay away from this unpleasant discomfort, do these three things and avoid bloating, gas and reflux as much as possible.
- Digest your food properly.
This is very important as undigested foods can often lead to formation of gas in your intestines. For example, in case you are intolerant to gluten or lactose, it’s essential to stay away from foods with gluten or dairy products as your body won’t be able to digest these foods properly, and this will lead to gas and discomfort.
In addition, you may have deficiency of beneficial gut bacteria, which are essential for proper digestion. If your stomach lacks the necessary intestinal bacteria, it won’t be able to work efficiently. Your beneficial gut bacteria can be depleted due to an unhealthy diet, antibiotics or other medications, as well as poorly absorbed carbohydrates.
- Avoid foods that cause bloating and gas
There’s a long list of foods that can cause bloating, gas and discomfort. These foods also trigger acid reflux, which occurs when stomach acid comes up the esophagus and turns into heartburn.
Foods high in fat are a major cause of gas because they are hard to digest and remain in the intestinal system longer, and cause an uncomfortable feeling of bloating. Fried foods are also responsible for the buildup of intestinal gases and bloating.
Surprisingly, foods with high fiber content can also lead to intestinal discomfort. These are the most common culprits for acid reflux, gas, and bloating:
- Vegetables
- Fruit
- Cereal
- Pasta
- Dairy products
- Whole grains
- Avoid behaviors that cause bloating, gas, and reflux.
Apart from the above mentioned foods that can cause gas and bloating, there are a number of behaviors that also lead to this condition. Some of these include chewing gum and sucking on candy, along with other similar activities can let excess air be taken into the stomach and cause gas. Moreover, carbonated drinks, sodas, and similar beverages can increase air content into your intestines. If you are a smoker, inhaling while smoking can also allow for excess air into your digestive system thus causing gas, bloating and digestive discomfort.
If you want to treat or prevent bloating and gas, it’s highly recommended to avoid certain foods and abstain from certain behaviors that aggravate this condition. Also, you can opt for over-the-counter medications, but only if other natural alternatives don’t help.
Always consult your physician before taking any medications.