Tuesday 8 November 2016

Get Rid of Bloating Or Trapped Wind

Stomach or abdominal bloating is a common problem. Most of us often experience the feeling of bloating or gaseous distension, making our tummy puffy, uncomfortable and stretched. It is usually experienced after a big weekend or during a festive season, as we tend to overeat such times. However, for some people, it is just an occasional problem.

Following are the causes of bloating or trapped wind:
  • Excess wind
  • Indigestion
  • Constipation
  • Swallowing too much air while eating or talking
  • Food intolerance
  • Coeliac disease
  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

How to get rid of bloating?
Treating and correcting the underlying condition can help overcome trapped wind or bloating. For instance, cutting out fizzy foods and drinks can help you get rid of trapped wind. Eat healthy and perform regular exercise to overcome bloating.

Cut down foods that cause bloating, such as onions, beans, cabbage, sprouts, cauliflower and broccoli. Make sure you eat fresh fruits and vegetables that are rich in dietary fibre. If you have chronic constipation, eat fibre-rich diet, drink plenty of water and do regular exercise. Brisk walking for 20 minutes daily would help improve bowel function.

Do not swallow too much of air while talking and eating. Sit down to eat and chew the food thoroughly before gulping. Reduce or avoid the intake of fizzy drinks and stop chewing gum.

When your bowel fails to empty properly or the food produces gas, you experience trapped wind due to food intolerance. Wheat (gluten) and dairy products are the main culprits. The best way to get rid of bloating caused by these foodstuffs is to avoid or reduce the intake of such foods.

Coeliac disease is a digestive condition where the intestines fail to absorb gluten. Apart from trapped wind, you may experience diarrhoea, abdominal discomfort and weakness. Gluten-free diet is the best way in such cases. IBS causes bloating with alternate diarrhoea and constipation.


If bloating persists even after following the aforementioned steps, make sure you see your GP, because it may indicate some serious medical issues. Over-the-counter medicines containing calcium carbonate and magnesium carbonate may help reduce trapped wind or bloating.

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