Are you feeling bloated and uncomfortable? According to our readers, if this describes you, you are not alone. We get visitors on a daily basis who suffer from a bloated, uncomfortable abdomen and are looking for some relief (who knew?). Because this is such a prevalent topic and relates to your health and your ability to enjoy an active and symptom-free lifestyle, we have created this article on the causes and symptoms of bloating as well as some ways of providing relief. We hope it helps! You will notice additional resources sprinkled throughout the article, all from experts in the field with specific help for this problem.

Many millions of people suffer from bloating, which is the fullness and swelling of the abdomen, and which often occurs after meals. This condition is not only uncomfortable, it causes additional problems such as tight or ill fitting clothing, stomach cramps and gas, and perhaps even embarrassment.

Although there can be more serious causes* and bloating can, as mentioned, be extremely uncomfortable, most bloating is not dangerous and is simply a symptom of excessive intestinal gas, usually caused by the natural processes of bacteria living within the digestive system.

Common causes of bloating include:

• Food allergies or sensitivities to certain foods
• Lactose intolerance (most humans are not good with lactose, and certain races are more sensitive than others)
• Over-eating
• Eating too fast
• Not eating meals on time (at regular intervals)
• Swallowing air
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome*

How to get rid of bloating – quick cures:

• Drink herbal teas: some teas that are thought to help ease bloating include peppermint, chamomile and ginger. Fresh ginger may also be used – just add hot water.
• Walking or light exercise: movement tends to help air (and food) move through the system, and will make you feel better on many levels
• Over-the-counter medications: medicines such as activated charcoal tablets can provide you with quick temporary relief from bloating, and many people swear by simple tablets such as Tums.
• Yoga and/or pilates: these body-friendly exercise regimes are great for all-around well-being, and can be done gently if need be. Try poses which are specifically designed to ease bloating and stomach discomfort.
• Pure peppermint oil: just a drop on the tongue can help calm bloated bellies, according to proponents.
• Take a ‘Beano’ tablet prior to eating foods which are known to cause bloating. These and similar products actually stop the implicated bacteria from their activity, thus preventing the gas from forming in the first place.

How to get rid of bloating – long-term methods:

• One effective solution for abdominal bloating is to change your diet. As a first step, avoid gassy foods such as lentils and beans, cabbages and other brassica vegetables (such as broccoli, cauliflower, etc.), wheat and gluten, deep fried foods, oily foods, and sodas. Try changing or eliminating one food at a time, so you can determine what was causing the bloating. Note that we all need healthy foods, so if you must cut out ‘gassy’ foods ensure you replace them with fruits and vegetables of equal nutritional value.
• Adding fiber to your diet can help eliminate bloating. From more fresh fruits, veggies and whole grains to the latest products which add a healthy dose of fiber to cooking and baking (such as Fibre One), there are many options here. Be cautious, however, and add fiber gradually; be prepared for some continued bloating as your body adjusts to your new diet.
• A cleansing ritual such as colon hydrotherapy or a full colon cleansing regimen can work wonders for your digestive system. Much of what we consume stays in our bodies, emitting toxins and causing various health problems. According to research and customer experience, a colon cleansing regimen can reduce bloating significantly.

*Note: Bloating can be caused by many things, including IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome), celiac disease and other serious ailments. If symptoms persist, be sure and check with your doctor. You may also want to be tested for lactose intolerance and/or food allergies.