It is a common occurrence to encounter people suffering from a bloated stomach from time to time, and for varying reasons. Stomach bloating/swelling is a temporary condition that occurs when the tissues inside the stomach enlarge and cause temporary abdominal distention. Studies show that once the swelling subsides, the stomach returns to its original size. While some people experience a few instances of the stomach condition, others suffer from the condition regularly. Research shows that stomach swelling could be as a result of several factors, including these signs:
- Overeating food in a short period
- Menstruation in women
- Indigestion and constipation
- Consumption of acidic foods such as beans and fizzy drinks
- Underlying medical conditions such as cancer, gastritis, and IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome)
The good news regarding bloating is that several home remedies are available for you to try to ease the condition. Such remedies are often available in most households, and the best part about them is that they also act as preventive measures against stomach swelling.
Ten Bloated Stomach Remedies to Try at Home
Here are ten remedies for a bloated stomach:
1. Drink Lemon Water
Lemon juice is a natural diuretic that increases the amount of water and salts the body passes as urine. As such, lemon water is a good remedy for the discomfort caused by consuming excess sodium. High sodium levels in the body trick the body into retaining water since the system perceives that the person is dehydrated. You could squeeze half a lemon in warm water and drink it as a remedy. You may add a teaspoon of honey to make the concoction palatable.
2. Probiotics
Probiotics are an excellent source of the good bacteria your regular doctor discusses. They are naturally present in kimchi, sauerkraut, temper, and kefir plants. Dr. Robynne Chutkan, the Digestive Center for Women founder, reiterates that live bacteria address the imbalance problem in the gut flora. Such plant-based probiotics and yogurt also improve digestion and alleviate stomach swelling.
3. Drink Herbal Teas
Herbal teas, including green tea, chamomile tea, and peppermint tea, are full of antioxidants that aid in assuaging inflammation in the body. You could take warm herbal tea at least twice a day to help with a bloated abdomen.
4. Baking Soda
Baking soda is readily found in almost every household and is an excellent remedy for a bloated stomach. To create a remedy, one needs to mix a teaspoon of it with water and drink it to alleviate indigestion and counter the high levels of hydrochloric acid in the stomach that frequently cause the condition. The taste may not be delectable, but the results usually manifest shortly after consumption.
5. Eat Bananas
Bananas are a great source of potassium. In Chemistry, Potassium is considered to be an alkali metal. When consumed, the compound flushes out salt from the body and even contributes to the optimal functioning of the kidney. Consuming a banana can potentially relieve a bloated stomach. Additionally, the fiber in the banana also helps you to have better bowel movements; hence, it is unlikely to suffer from constipation. Other meals that are rich in potassium include avocados, green leafy vegetables, and legumes.
6. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is one of the newest fads in the health industry, with everyone grabbing a bottle and drinking gallons of it. You could mix 2 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar in warm water and gulp the mixture in the morning to kick start proper digestion in the stomach. It is imperative to dilute it to avoid acidic burns along your gut.
7. Eat or Drink Ginger
Ginger is a magical remedy as it contains two compounds called gingerols and shogaols known to combat inflammation in the body. You may opt to drink ginger in warm water or cook with it and this can help ease a bloated stomach.
8. Use Turmeric in Food
Curcumin is a fat-soluble antioxidant in turmeric that aids in eliminating inflammation in the body. Consequently, turmeric is a great spice that is easily incorporated into most foods. Keeping turmeric at hand when cooking is advisable to ensure you and your family are free of stomach swelling symptoms.
9. Reduce Coffee Consumption
Coffee lovers should be mindful that coffee increases acid production in the body and frequently irritates the gastrointestinal tract. Reducing one’s coffee intake is advisable to prevent the stomach from swelling. You could start by reducing the number of cups you take daily until you get to at most, one cup of coffee in a day. Further, avoid mixing coffee with cream and sugar since such additives could exacerbate swelling.
10. Reduce Salt Intake
Salt is one of the most typical culprits of a bloated stomach. Excess sodium causes the body to retain water in anticipation of dehydration. Subsequently, fluid is retained in the stomach and other parts, such as the face, ankles, and hands. Keep track of the bouts of stomach bloating and note whether they occur when you consume certain foods with high sodium. Also, you should avoid excessive junk food and reduce salt when cooking.
Final Thoughts on Relief for a Bloated Stomach
In conclusion, you should continually track your stomach swelling bouts to understand what remedies work best for your symptoms. If the bloated stomach persists, then it is advisable to seek medical attention to determine if an unknown underlying medical condition is causing the discomfort.
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