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What Should a Person Experiencing Gas & Bloating Do?

Gas and bloating are common gastrointestinal symptoms that often occur together. There are many remedies for gas and bloating, many of which can be purchased over-the-counter for under $10.

  1. Activated Charcoal

    • Activated charcoal is used in emergency medicine to prevent the absorption of ingested poisons by the stomach. According to Mayo Clinic, activated charcoal tablets may be helpful in treating gas and bloating when taken before and after meals. Activated charcoal can be purchased in many drugstores and health supplement shops.

    Simethicone

    • Anti-gas medications containing simethicone are useful remedies for gas and bloating. Simethicone works by causing small gas bubbles to merge into larger bubbles, resulting in easier elimination, according to Medicine Net.

    Herbal Remedies

    • Some common herbs contain compounds that may be helpful for treating gas and bloating. According to National Institutes of Health, fennel seed oil reduces intestinal spasms and increases small intestine motility, making it a useful remedy for colic and other gastrointestinal symptoms. Other herbs with digestive properties include ginger, peppermint and anise seed.

    Exercise

    • Gentle exercise like yoga or simple stretching can help move gas through the intestinal tract more quickly, relieving bloating and discomfort.

    Preventing Gas and Bloating

    • Avoiding gas-forming foods like beans and cauliflower can help prevent gas, while limiting your intake of salty foods and carbonated beverages may reduce bloating. Chew food slowly and thoroughly, and consider taking a digestive enzyme like Beano before large meals. If gas and bloating are a recurring problem, talk to your doctor about your treatment options.

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