Bloating happens when too much air builds up in your digestive tract. This can be caused by swallowing air or from undigested food breaking down in the large intestine.
While gas and bloating are usually normal and not serious, they can still feel uncomfortable. Fortunately, home remedies and over-the-counter (OTC) options can help relieve symptoms and support your overall digestive health.
1. Herbal Remedies and Tea
Certain herbs—especially when consumed as tea—may help ease digestive discomfort, including bloating and gas.
Ginger root has been used in both ancient and modern medicine to relieve bloating-related discomfort. It may help reduce gas-producing fermentation when bacteria break down carbohydrates in the stomach. More studies are needed to confirm this effect.
Peppermint may help reduce symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), such as gas and bloating. It appears to work by relaxing the muscles in the digestive tract.
Even drinking a cup of hot tea alone may soothe bloating. Research shows that warm water helps relax the stomach and stimulate natural contractions in the gut, making it easier for trapped gas to pass.
2. Deep Breathing
Conscious deep breathing can also help relieve gas and bloating.
Shallow chest breathing often leads to swallowing excess air and may cause muscle tension or stress, which can interfere with digestion. Instead, try diaphragmatic (deep belly) breathing, which may improve bloating and other digestive issues.
To try this:
-
Sit upright and place one hand on your chest and the other on your belly.
-
Inhale slowly through your nose for four seconds, feeling your belly push outward.
-
Exhale for six seconds—your belly should fall.
-
The hand on your chest should remain mostly still.
Repeat this for a few minutes until you begin to feel relief.
3. Abdominal Massage
Gently massaging your abdomen can help reduce bloating.
Some studies suggest that massaging the belly in a specific pattern can relax abdominal muscles and encourage trapped gas to move through the digestive tract.
One technique is the “I L U” massage, where you trace the letters “I,” “L,” and “U” on your abdomen using moderate pressure to guide gas movement. This method can also help relieve constipation and promote bowel movements.
4. Heating Pad
Applying heat is another way to help release trapped gas.
A heating pad or warm compress placed on the stomach may relax the abdominal muscles and allow gas to move more easily through your digestive system. It may also help stimulate a bowel movement if needed.
The warmth can also ease pain or cramping caused by gas buildup.
5. Dietary Adjustments
Changing what you eat can go a long way in reducing occasional bloating. Certain foods—especially high-fiber ones—may not break down fully and can cause fermentation in the gut, leading to gas.
Here are some common diet tips to reduce bloating:
-
Eat high-fiber foods in moderation: Foods like bran are healthy but can cause gas if eaten in large amounts or introduced too quickly into your diet. Increase fiber gradually to minimize symptoms.
-
Cut back on cruciferous vegetables: Broccoli, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, and similar veggies are known to cause bloating.
-
Limit high-fructose foods: Fruits and processed foods with added fructose (fruit sugar) can be hard to digest and lead to bloating.
-
Consider avoiding dairy: Milk, cheese, and yogurt may trigger gas and bloating in people who are lactose intolerant.
6. Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications
Several OTC products may help relieve bloating and gas:
-
Digestive enzymes, like lactase supplements, help your body break down carbohydrates more effectively and reduce gas.
-
Alpha-galactosidase, found in products like Beano and BeanAssist, helps break down hard-to-digest sugars in beans and certain vegetables.
-
Activated charcoal tablets may absorb excess gas in the intestines, though more research is needed.
-
Pepto-Bismol (bismuth subsalicylate) is often used for diarrhea and stomach discomfort, but it may also help relieve bloating.
7. Gentle Exercise
Mild physical activity may encourage the movement of gas through your digestive system. Experts recommend light activities like walking, jogging, or stretching to help reduce bloating.
One study found that walking for 10–15 minutes shortly after a meal can ease gas discomfort. You can also try gentle yoga poses that stretch the abdomen to help release trapped gas.
If you often experience bloating, incorporating a combination of these remedies—along with consulting your healthcare provider—can help you feel more comfortable and support your digestive health in the long run.