How to Ease Gas Pains

Flatulence is composed of several different components, including nitrogen, oxygen and small amounts of methane, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. The odor from gas comes from bacteria in the intestinal tract and is unpleasant for everyone involved. Excessive gas causes several painful symptoms, including cramping and bloating. There are several ways to reduce the effects of gas, including the pain and the unwanted odor.

Things You'll Need

• Peppermint tea
• Over-the-counter treatments

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Instructions

• 1

  Drink a cup of peppermint tea. Peppermint contains the ingredient menthol, which helps relieve pains cause by spasms in the digestive tract. Peppermint tea is not a good remedy if the gas pains and bloating are accompanied by heartburn or acid indigestion, because it can exacerbate these symptoms, according to the Mayo Clinic.

• 2

  Take an over-the-counter enzymatic treatment, such as Beano, before eating foods that typically lead to gas, including beans and others that are naturally high in sugars. Other over-the-counter drugs, such as Lactaid, aid in the digestion of dairy products and help relieve gas and bloating caused by these foods and beverages.

• 3

  Take an over-the-counter medication that contains the active ingredient simethicone. These products, including Gas-X and Mylanta, help break up the gas, which causes it to exit your body more effectively.

• 4

  Perform exercises, such as swimming, jogging or go for a walk. Performing physical activities can help reduce the pain and bloating associated with gas, according to the Mayo Clinic.

• 5

  Avoid foods and beverages that cause excessive gas. These include milk, ice cream, broccoli, beans, onions, asparagus and foods that are high in fiber and bran.

• 6

  Eat several smaller meals throughout the day instead of consuming three large meals. This will help you avoid gas being caused by the excessive consumption of food.

• 7

  Avoid activities that cause an excessive intake of air into the digestive system, which leads to gas pains. This includes the cessation of smoking, chewing gum or drinking through a straw.