Why you’re bloated and how to get fast relief

Avoid salty and fatty foods

Foods high in salt and fat are harder for your digestive system to break down. This leads to more gas.

Stay hydrated

Drinking water can help move food through your digestive system, preventing constipation and bloating.

Fast bloating relief

When you feel bloated, you want relief immediately. It’s uncomfortable and can make you feel sluggish. These tips from Dr. Ogun should help get rid of bloating in minutes.

Tea

Peppermint, ginger and chamomile all have anti-bloating properties. Peppermint and ginger relax the stomach muscles, which reduces the spasms and the feeling of being bloated. Chamomile is an anti-inflammatory herb, which helps to reduce the swollenness of bloating. The warmth of tea also helps to relax the body.

Over the counter medications

Certain over the counter medications help to temporarily relieve bloating. Common antacids people use include Pepto Bismal, Gas-X and Tums. These relieve bloating and discomfort if they’re caused by extra stomach acid. However, for other causes of bloating, such as gas or overeating, alternative remedies may be more effective.

Heat

Use a warm compress, a hot water bottle or a heating pad. Applying heat to your abdomen can help relax muscles. The warmth helps get rid of belly pain that comes along with bloating. When your muscles are more relaxed, your body can more comfortably digest.

Get moving

Physical activity can stimulate digestion and alleviate bloating. Incorporate light exercises, such as walking or stretching, into your routine.

When you feel bloated all the time

How long bloating lasts depends on its cause. While some instances may resolve quickly, chronic bloating may require more investigating.

Chronic bloating may be a sign of an underlying health issue. Talk to your health care provider about feeling bloated often. If you have an underlying health issue, your provider can help you get rid of that feeling of being bloated all the time.