Gas can lead to stomach discomfort. It can cause bloating and heaviness in the body. Sometimes gas in the stomach results in cramps and heartburns too. A gassy stomach can be very embarrassing. High carb foods are not easily digested by the stomach. The bacteria in the colon break down these foods and while doing so releases gases that can make you feel uneasy. Some people are troubled by gas more often than others. There are various remedies for relieving excess gas. They can be over-the-counter remedies, probiotics or commonly used kitchen foods.

Herbs and home remedies for gas relief
Various herbs, spices, and herb teas help in relieving excess gas from the system. Some of the herbs and spices used are as follows.

  • Ginger
  • Dill
  • Chamomile
  • Fennel
  • Cumin
  • Basil
  • Parsley
  • Peppermint
  • Spearmint
  • Carom seeds

Lemon juice with ginger and baking soda provide great relief. The herbs and spices can be used in the powdered form or made as a tea and consumed.

Over the counter medication
Medication is available at drug stores. You may not need a prescription for most of them. The common medicines used are Simethicone, Beano, Gas-X, Zantac, Peppermint oil capsules and many other OTC medicines. They are generally taken before or after food. These medicines contain Simethicone, Activated charcoal, or a food enzyme called alpha-galactosidase. Alpha-galactosidase contains the enzyme the body lacks, to break down complex carbohydrates in certain foods, but the enzyme does not offer relief from gas caused by lactose intolerance. Lactase tablets give better relief to gas caused due to lactose allergy. They are taken before or after a meal as per the specification.

A few changes in daily eating and food habits can go a long way in easing gas and flatulence in the system. The following lifestyle changes can be considered to reduce gas:

  • Eating slowly and chewing the food well
  • Sitting erect for a while after a meal
  • Drinking liquids at room temperature
  • Eating smaller quantities at frequent intervals

Therapy for those who are stressed out
There is a link between stress and gas, as stress can cause spasms in the colon and abdomen. The GI tract is also lined with nerves. Relaxation therapy is suggested for those who are stressed out. Researchers have noted that introducing the patient to yoga, meditation and counseling to relax the person, has improved the digestive health of the patient.

Probiotics to relieve bloating in the body
A lot of studies is going into the effect of probiotics on easing the symptoms of excessive gas in the body. Probiotics are good bacteria, similar to the ones present in the gut and they aid digestion. They are available at retail stores as dietary supplements. Many home foods also have natural probiotics, like:

  • Yogurt
  • Kimchi
  • Kefir
  • Tempeh
  • Sauerkraut

Probiotics are especially suitable for those experiencing flatulence with Irritable bowel syndrome.

Exercises like walking and yoga also help ease bloating and gas in the body. In spite of all the remedies if the problem continues better to consult with the doctors and do the necessary tests as it may be indicative of a larger digestive problem.