Bloating seriously throws off my entire mood - it can even ruin my week if I don't get it under control. Not only do my clothes not fit when I'm bloated, but I can hardly eat, I feel more tired and simply uncomfortable in my own body. For a long time, I just lived with the discomfort for a few days when I got bloated until one of my roommates in college recommended peppermint tea to help me out. And it worked! This herbal miracle had me curious as to what other natural remedies were available just in my own kitchen to relieve my pesky bloating. Here's what I found.
So, why do we bloat, to begin with? It all starts in the digestive system, more specifically, the gastrointestinal tract (GI). The gastrointestinal tract is made up of a series of " hollow organs joined in a long, twisting tube from the mouth to the anus," and is a part of the digestive system along with the liver, pancreas, and gallbladder. When there's a buildup of gas stuck in the GI, bloating occurs. Air can become trapped in the gastrointestinal tract in two ways - we can swallow air with eating and drinking, or it is created by the bacteria or microflora in our gut. Symptoms of bloating include the stomach feeling full and tight, abdominal pain and tenderness, as well as increased flatulence in addition to general discomfort.
Why does bloating occur? It all depends on YOU. People bloat for different reasons. It can be caused by the foods we eat, food sensitivities, stress, etc. The first step in helping to relieve bloating is by finding out what's triggering it in the first place! That being said, there are a couple of common reasons you might be feeling more bloated than usual:
It's also important to mention that individuals can feel bloated from water retention, which occurs when hydration levels in the body are thrown out of balance. Our bodies can retain water due to hormonal changes, dehydration, certain medications, consuming too much sodium, and airplane travel. Retaining water leads to puffiness and swelling in addition to bloating.
Talk with your doctor if you're experiencing chronic or especially painful bloating to ensure there are no underlying health concerns causing the discomfort.
Everyone experiences bloating from time to time, but we certainly don't have to suffer through the discomfort of it! These natural ingredients and home remedies may help relieve a bloated stomach:
Beyond the natural remedies that can be found in the grocery store, in your kitchen, or online, there are lifestyle changes you can make and other tips that may help to relieve bloating.
If changing your diet and switching up lifestyle habits doesn't seem to be providing any relief, contact your doctor or healthcare provider to ensure a deeper medical issue is not the cause of your bloating. If you're thinking about adding a supplement or probiotic to your routine, talk to your doctor first to make sure it's safe for you and your health history.