Yoga-A CURE for stomach gas and acidity problems

Yoga for Gas and Acidity

Gas and acidity conditions have same causes. These problems usually occur due to certain factors such as consuming processed, oily and spicy foods, emotional factors, improper eating and drinking habits, smoking, etc.
The best remedy for these problems is practicing yoga regularly. Along with yoga you have to be careful in your eating habits like how and what you eat. Here are some yogic postures that help you to get rid of gas and acidity problems.

Threats of excessive gas in body

• Heart problems
• Ulcers in stomach
• Headache
• Arthritis when gas flows through joints
• Digestive system disorder 

Acidity Symptoms

Symptoms found in children are :

• Respiratory problems

• inadequate weight

• vomiting, coughing,
• turning down food

The tips for remove/Prevent Acidity/Gastric problem

• Increase the intake of fresh fruits and vegetables and especially leafy vegetables. They provide fiber and roughage in your diet which are very important for quick digestion.
• Take buttermilk or curd daily after lunch. You can also add garlic and ginger to them. It is very effective in relieving gas and chronic acidity problems.
• Decrease the intake of junk foods, spicy and oily foods as they worsen the gas and acidity problems. Instead take consume fruits and vegetables.
• Avoid drinking alcohol and cigarettes as they increases the gas in your body system.
• Avoid coffee, tea and other caffeine rich products.
• Consume excess of water as it will help in cleaning your gut and also helps in proper and smooth bowel movements. This makes the body system to get rid of gas. Water also keeps your body system hydrated always and thus gives relief from acidity problems.
• Avoid having tea and coffee and other caffeine rich beverages. Also avoid smoking cigarettes and drinking alcohol, especially beer since it increases the gas in your system

Home remedies to cure acidity and gas problems :

• Amla juice with sugar and water, eating phalsa (a fruit) or yogurt, eating a little jaggery after meals(it prevents acid formation),
• drinking coconut water or cold milk or soda, eating grated or crushed ginger with coriander or white vinegar, eating banana with sugar and cardamom powder,
• boiled and roasted potato with meals reduces acidity problem as it consists potassium that restricts acidity,
• eating carrots, watermelon and cloves, chewing basil(tulsi) leaves, bottle gourd juice, add garlic to food

What to avoid?

Eating vegetables like radish, onion, tea, spicy, fried, heavy to digest foods, pickles, unripe fruits, smoking as smokers pull in more air which is swallowed, staying hungry for hours, drinking alcohol, junk food

Yoga asanas or postures for acidity and gas problems :

• Makarasana or Crocodile pose : It helps in improving digestion
  
• Vajrasan or Thunderbolt pose : It promotes good digestion and prevents acidity and gas trouble.
  
• Pawanmuktasan or Wind relieving pose : It relieves excess gas from the system and treats chronic acidity. It should not be done by pregnant women, people having weak backs or spinal problems.
  
• Balasana (Childs Pose)
  
• Mandukasana (Frog pose)
  
•  Kapalabhati Pranayama  
• Agnisar Kriya 

A very powerful pose at the beginning of the asana practice, which helps entire digestive system and makes asana practice more easy.

Pawanmuktasana – Gas Release Posture

Pawan - Air, Gas
Mukta - Free, release
Asana – Pose

Taking the asana position:

• Exhale and while inhaling slowly raise the legs to a 90 degree angle from the floor. 

• Bend both legs at the knees and rest the thighs against the abdomen, keeping the knees and ankles together.

• Encircle the knees with both arms, hands clasping opposite elbows.

• Bend the neck and place the chin on the knees. Continue to maintain the asana, breathing normally.

The asana position:

In this position the thighs are pressed against the abdomen and the wrists or elbows are clasped. The neck is bent towards the knees and if possible the forehead or chin is touching the knees. The breath is relaxed.

Releasing the asana position:

• Straighten the neck and lower the head back on to the ground.
• Release the arms and place them beside the body.
• While inhaling straighten both of the legs, let them rest at 90 degrees from the ground.
• Exhaling slowly lower the legs back to the supine position.

Anatomical focus:
Abdomen (especially lower abdomen), thighs, hips, buttocks

Awareness:
On relaxing the abdomen, thighs, hips, buttocks.
Normal breath.

Do:

• Try to touch the chin to the knees.
• Try to keep the legs together.
• Relax the body and breathe normally in the pose.
• Point the toes.

Don’t:

• Strain your neck.
• Overstretch, trying to pull the thighs too close and causing strain.

Benefits:

• Stretches the neck and back.
• The abdominal muscles are tensed and the internal organs are compressed which increases the blood circulation and stimulates the nerves, increasing the efficiency of the internal organs.
• The pressure on the abdomen releases any trapped gases in the large intestine.
• Blood circulation is increased to all the internal organs.
• Digestive system is improved.
• Relieves constipation.
• Strengthens the lower back muscles and loosens the spinal vertebrae.
• Sterility and impotence.

Benefits for Women:

• Massages the pelvic muscles and reproductive organs and is beneficial for menstrual disorders.
• Reduces fats in the abdominal area, thighs and buttocks.

Therapeutic applications:

Flatulence
Constipation
Menstrual disorders
Sterility
Impotence

Precautions and Contra-indications:

• Must be avoided if there is recent abdominal surgery as there is a lot of pressure on the abdomen.
• Anyone suffering from hernia or piles should avoid this asana.
• Pregnant women should not practice this asana.
• If there is any pain, stiffness or injury to the next the head should remain on the floor.

Duration:
To begin with start with 10 seconds and slowly increase up to one minute.

Sequence
It is good to practice this pose on waking as it stimulates bowel movements. During your asana practice, this pose should be the done in first few practices as it will relieve the trapped gases from intestines and will make the asana practice more easy and flexible.

Additional section -
Variations and tips:
Preparatory poses:
Sulabh Pawanmuktasana (Easy Gas release pose) - Please keep the head on the floor instead of lifting it.
Ardha Pawanmuktasana (Half Gas Release pose) - Instead of bending both the legs, bend one leg.

Follow up poses:
Dwi Pada Uttanpadasana (2 legs raised pose)

Compiled by -Jigyasu Bhaktiratna (Kate Woodworth)

Beat the gas and Bloat with Yoga

If holiday overindulgence has upset your digestion, beat bloat and flatten your belly with these 14 yoga poses 

 

Yoga poses for digestion

by Min-Ja Lee

It's easy to overindulge, and feel bloated and puffy after a big meal. The main cause? Not-so-savory reasons like gas and acid reflux. Instead of popping a Tums and flopping back on the couch, think about trying a natural cure for stomach troubles.

"Fifteen minutes of yoga will help ease your pain," says Zayna Gold, creator of Healing Through Movement and a Boston-based yoga instructor. As a long-time sufferer of Crohn's disease, she's created this yoga sequence to beat bloat, flatten your middle, and ease your stomach pains. 

Benefits of yoga

 

Gold recommends starting from a reclining position. "This gives you a chance to take a deep breath and feel energized," she says. Then, she progresses from seated to standing positions. Some, like the bridge pose, are stretch moves that stimulate your abdominal organs. Next are twist poses that massage and tone your abdomen—great therapy for gas, bloating, and constipation. The remaining poses work out your back, neck and spine. "You will feel less stress when your nervous system is relaxed. The health benefits will spread to the rest of your body and ease your digestion," says Gold.

Knees hugged to chest or "Apanasana"

 

You'll want to do this simple stretch—also known as the wind-relieving pose—to gain relief from bloating and gas pains.

How to do it: Lie down, relax and inhale, placing your hands on your knees. Exhale, and hug your knees to your chest. Rock your knees from side to side to maximize the stretch. Stay for five to ten breaths, and release your knees. Repeat this move a few more times.

Modification: Bring up your knees as far as it is comfortable. To vary the stretch, you can do one side at a time. Leaving your left leg extended, bring up your right knee and hold it for five or more breaths. Then, switch to the other side.

Spinal twist

 

Use this twist pose to soothe and tone your abdomen.

How to do it: Lie down, hug your knees and inhale. As you exhale, drop your knees to the left, using your left hand to push them down gently. Then, turn your head and stretch your arm out to the right. Stay for five to ten breaths. Inhale, and return your hands and knees to center. Repeat on the other side.

Bridge Pose or "Setu Bandha Sarvangasana"

 

This mild inversion helps your blood flow, making you feel more energized.

How to do it: Lie on the floor and bend your knees. Keep your arms beside your body and your feet flat on the floor. Move your hips up to give your chest a good stretch. To better aid your digestion, try this variation. "Press one hip up and hold the pose. Take five breaths, then switch to the other side," says Gold.

Modification: Keep your hands under you as you arch your back and open your chest. You can also clasp your hands and interlace your fingers under your back.

One-legged seated spinal twist

 

Since you're doing this twist pose from a seated position, you have more control over your stretch.

How to do it: Sit with your legs extended. Bend your right knee and place your heel close to your body. Reach your right arm behind you and place your palm on the floor. Your left elbow goes on the outside of the right knee to help you twist. Stay for five or more breaths, deepening the stretch every time you exhale. Then release the twist and repeat on the other side. 

Seated Forward Bend Pose or "Paschimottanasana"

 

This simple stretch helps you relax, and relieve some of the stress that's affecting your digestion.

How to do it: Sit on the floor with your legs in front of you. Keeping your back straight, slowly hinge forward at the hips and lower your torso. Stay there for five to ten deep breaths.

Modification: Lower yourself as far as you can, but keep it comfortable and feel the stretch.

Seated Heart Opener

 

Use this move when you've eaten too much. It will stretch out your belly and ease stomach cramps.

How to do it: Sit down on your heels and lean back, placing your palms about eight inches behind you, with your fingertips pointing away from you. Press your hands into the ground, lift your chest and arch your back. You should feel your hips pushing into your heels. Increase the stretch by lowering your head behind you. Feel the stretch in your throat and chest. Hold for five breaths, and then sit up.

Modification: You can do this pose while sitting in a chair. Lift your chest, arch your back and feel the stretch.

Cat and Cow or "Marjaryasana and Bitilasana"

 

Transition between these two poses to warm up your spine and relieve the tension in your back and neck.

How to do it: Get on your hands and knees on the floor. Inhale, making sure your back is flat and your abs engaged. Exhale, drop your head and round up your spine for cat pose. On an inhale, arch your back, lifting your head and butt for cow pose. Switch back and forth between the two poses, connecting your inhale with cow pose and exhale with cat pose. Repeat several times.

Child's Pose or "Balasana"

 

Also known as the resting pose, this is a basic move you can use for a relaxing stretch. Stay in this position for five breaths or more.

How to do it: Sit on your knees and feet with your legs spaced wide apart. Lean forward, stretching your arms in front of you. Then, keeping your back straight, place your forehead on the floor.

Modification: To make it easier to hold the pose, rest your head on a block or a pillow.

Relief from stomach gas and flatuence

Healthy Habits to Prevent Gas

Seeking gas relief but don't know how to find it? Look closely at what and how you eat to help prevent gas.

Gas is a normal part of your body's digestive process. However, lifestyle has a lot to do with how much gas your body produces and how you can find gas relief.
Many healthy foods, including high-fiber favorites like fruits and veggies, whole grains, and beans, tend to trigger excessive gas.
"Fruits and vegetables contain carbohydrates, and intestinal gas results from undigested carbohydrates that are fermented by bacteria," explains Chicago-area dietitian Toby Smithson, RDN, LDN, CDE, a spokeswoman for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
But many lifestyle factors, from body weight to smoking to chewing gum, can also play a role in gas and bloating. Making the right dietary and lifestyle choices can help you prevent gas.

Introduce Fiber Slowly

 

When you're upping your fiber intake, don't rush it. Go slowly. "If there's a major change in your diet, your digestive system will need some time to get used to the increase in fiber," Smithson says. The digestive tract can't break down fiber, and excessive gas is often a result. But gradually increasing the high-fiber foods in your diet allows the bacteria in the digestive tract to adjust to the extra fiber and help prevent gas. Smithson suggests that you increase fiber over several months.

Savor Your Food

 

To ease excessive gas, cut down on how much air you swallow when you eat. To do this, keep quiet — avoid talking too much while you eat, says Vandana Sheth, RDN, CDE, a Los Angeles-area dietitian and nutrition consultant and a spokeswoman for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Eat slowly, chew your food thoroughly, and try to relax while you eat. Set aside enough time to enjoy your meal rather than rushing through it. Sip, Don't Suck

Sucking on hard candies or chewing gum can worsen gas and bloating. These behaviors cause you to swallow more air, creating more gas for your body to expel. Also, avoid drinking through a straw and from bottles with a pull-top that you suck. "Drinking this way can cause you to swallow more air, leading to increased gas pain," says New Jersey dietitian Erin Palinski-Wade, RD, CDE, LDN, CPT, author of Belly Fat for Dummies and a spokeswoman for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. "Instead, switch to sipping from a glass to cut down on the air you swallow." 

Forget Fake Sweeteners

 

Not only is it important to avoid sucking on candies and gum, but you should also avoid any foods (including gum or candy) with sorbitol as a sweetener. This sugar alcohol is often poorly digested by the body. Mannitol, another sugar alcohol commonly found in sugar-free mints and gum, can contribute to excessive gas, too. "These foods are problematic because they're fermented by bacteria in the colon, and fermentation causes gas," says dietitian Constance Brown-Riggs, MSEd, RD, CDE, CDN, a national spokeswoman for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and author of The African American Guide to Living Well With Diabetes. You may also need to be aware when taking cold medications — read labels because some contain these gas-causing sugar alcohols.
 

Don't Recline After You Dine

 

"If you lie down right after eating, it can make it more challenging for your body to digest the food you just ate," Palinski-Wade says. "When digestion is more challenging or takes longer, this can lead to an increase in intestinal bloating and gas production." Instead, sit upright or stand for at least an hour after eating a meal before you lie down, she says.

Walk Off Your Meal

 

Even better, head out for a stroll to help you digest your meal and ward off excessive gas. "Any physical activity or movement after eating helps the body process food better," Sheth says. Going for a walk, tackling a light project, or doing some calisthenics helps encourage the digestive tract to pass gas. "Taking a short walk after eating can help speed intestinal transit, increase the rate of digestion, and cut down on gas production," Palinski-Wade says. You'll feel better and burn off some of the calories you ate, too.

 

Make Tobacco Taboo

 

If you regularly light up, especially after a big meal, it's time to quit. There's no question that smoking is unhealthy, but it also can worsen gas and bloating. "Smoking leads to the swallowing of excess air, which in turn introduces more gas to the digestive system," Palinski-Wade says. So if you want gas relief, nix the cigs. "Quitting smoking can decrease gas as well as dramatically improve your overall health," she says.

Say No to Sodas

Sodas and other carbonated beverages — anything that's fizzy or sparkling — are already infused with gas. So when you drink them, you're introducing even more gas into your digestive tract. Skip the carbonated drinks in favor of "flat" drinks to prevent worsening an excessive gas problem. You should also avoid many fruit juices, particularly pear juice and apple juice, as well as any drinks that contain high-fructose corn syrup because they can also worsen gas.

Avoid Cold Drinks

When it comes to beverages, temperature matters. "Drinking cold beverages with a meal can slow down your body's proper digestive actions, making digestion more challenging," Palinski-Wade says. "In addition, the cold temperature of drinks may cause intestinal cramping leading to digestive discomfort and gas." So skip the ice and sip a more tepid or room-temperature beverage instead.

Top Gas-Producing Foods

Excessive gas can be uncomfortable and embarrassing. Find out how cutting back on certain gas-producing foods can ease digestive discomfort.

By Mary Elizabeth Dallas

Medically reviewed by Farrokh Sohrabi, MD

No one is immune to bouts of gas, but if you experience more than your share of gas and bloating, you know the discomfort this can bring. Although everyone's body reacts differently to different foods, there are certain gas-producing foods that can cause more trouble than others. How and when you eat can also play a role in excessive gas. Making some adjustments to your diet can help ease these digestive issues.
Where Does Gas Come From?
Gas, also known as flatulence or belching, may be caused by air that you swallow while eating, particularly if you're rushing. Gas can also result when bacteria break down undigested food in the large intestine. For instance, the stomach and small intestine don’t fully digest fiber as well as the carbohydrates found in many foods.
"Not all carbohydrates are easy to digest," explains dietitian Angela Lemond, RDN, CSP, LD, a spokeswoman for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics who has expertise in gastrointestinal nutrition. "Fruits and vegetables are big offenders, especially those in raw form because the body has to work hard to digest these plant-based foods. It's also very dependent on the individual."
Why Some People Have More Gas Than Others
Gas-producing foods affect different people in different ways. How your body reacts to food depends on how well you digest carbohydrates and what type of bacteria is in your intestines. The efficiency of your digestive tract also plays a role in how well you’re able to move and expel gas.
An analysis of 68 studies and six review articles on the gastrointestinal effects of low-digestible carbohydrates such as fiber, resistant starch, and sugar alcohols, published in the journal Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition in 2009, found that for many people these carbohydrates can lead to gastrointestinal issues, like excessive gas, abdominal discomfort, and diarrhea, particularly when consumed in large amounts.
Among the top gas-producing foods are beans and other legumes as well as cruciferous vegetables, such as:

• Cabbages
• Turnips
• Kale
• Broccoli
• Brussels sprouts
• Arugula
• Cauliflower

Other high-fiber foods, like whole grains, may also cause gas or bloating, particularly if you've recently increased your fiber intake. The body tends to acclimate to a high-fiber diet over time, Lemond says. "Increased or excessive gas usually gets better," she says.
Lactose, or milk sugar, may also cause gas in some people. If you have trouble digesting milk or dairy products like ice cream and cheese, your body may not be making enough of the enzyme lactase, which is needed to break down the lactose in dairy foods.
Common sweeteners, such as fructose, may also be to blame for excessive gas. The small intestine can only absorb a limited amount of fructose daily. When bacteria break down undigested sweeteners in the colon, gas can result. Many fruit beverages, including pear and apple juice, contain fructose. Sodas and some other sugary beverages with high-fructose corn syrup can be culprits of gas as well.
Lemond says that anyone concerned about excessive gas should be mindful of the sweeteners added to sugar-free candy, gum, and some packaged foods, such as cereal and granola bars. "On top of the added fiber, some granola bars also contain sugar alcohols known to cause intestinal gas," she says. Look for sorbitol, mannitol, and xylitol — all sugar alcohols — among the ingredients on nutrition labels. Her advice: Avoid all sugars that end in the letters "ol."
Steps to Reduce Excessive Gas
First, determine what's causing your digestive discomfort. To do that, Lemond suggests keeping a diary of what you eat and drink. Also record how often you burp, pass gas, or experience other uncomfortable symptoms, like bloating. By tracking your symptoms in a food diary, along with what and when you're eating, you may be able to pinpoint what's causing you to develop gas.
Other ways to find gas relief include:
Trial and error. Try experimenting with your diet. Temporarily cutting back on certain foods and then reintroducing them can help isolate gas-producing foods, Lemond says. Once your dietary culprits are found, however, you don't have to give them up entirely. "Try eating smaller portions of foods that usually cause you gas," she says. "Also avoid pairing two or more big offenders in one meal."
Even people diagnosed with a food intolerance can modify their diet to ease their symptoms. "Lactose intolerance is a common digestive issue," Lemond says. "That doesn't mean you have to cut out all dairy. Yogurt is usually okay. Lactose-free milk and low-lactose cheeses are also available."
Slow down. When trying to reduce gas, it's also important to consider how you eat. "Eating too fast, not chewing well, and gulping air are going to cause more gas," she says. "You need to appreciate the enzymes in your mouth that help break down food. If you eat too quickly, you’re not allowing your mouth to start the digestive process."
Eat regularly. Timing is also important when trying to ease gas and bloating. "Many people wait too long to eat, then eat very large portions," Lemond says. "This can cause gas or even diarrhea because there’s just too much stress on the stomach."
Avoid icy, hot, and fizzy drinks. "Cold or hot liquids and carbonated drinks can also trigger gas or bloating," she says. If you feel the need to drink a beverage while eating, opt for water at room temperature.
Reduce fat intake. Limiting high-fat foods can help reduce gas and bloating. Cut back on fat in your diet to help your stomach empty faster. This will allow gases to move more quickly into your small intestine. "Fat slows the functioning of your intestines, so if you don't process gas very well, fatty foods could make that worse," says Lena Palmer, MD, a gastroenterologist, assistant professor in the department of medicine, and medical director of nutritional services at Loyola University Chicago.
When to Talk to Your Doctor About Gas
When gas is accompanied by other symptoms, such as constipation, diarrhea, or weight loss, it's time to talk to your doctor, Dr. Palmer says. You should also see your doctor if your symptoms are troublesome or suddenly change.
Intolerances to certain foods may cause gastrointestinal distress, but Lemond says it's not a good idea to restrict your diet without guidance from your doctor first. "It's concerning when people start pulling certain foods or food groups out of their diet and trying to self-diagnose or self-treat," she says. "This can have a nutritional impact.” If excessive gas is a real problem for you, consider seeing a doctor who specializes in digestive health (a gastroenterologist) to get to the bottom of it and find ways to reduce gas and discomfort.
 

 

Home Remedies for Stomach Gas

Although the production of gas is a natural part of the digestive process, many people dread the possibility of passing gas in front of others. An uncontrollable fart at an inconvenient time can make a person the butt of jokes for years to come. But problematic gas is no laughing matter.
Excess gas in the stomach can be caused by a number of things, such as excessive drinking, not chewing your food thoroughly, eating spicy and gas-forming food, too much stress, some kind of bacterial infection, or digestive disorders.
Symptoms of stomach gas include flatulence, bad breath, lack of appetite, a coating on the tongue, abdominal bloating, belching and even stomach pain.
Fortunately, this problem can be easily treated with some simple,natural home remedies.
Here are the top 10 home remedies for gas.

1. Cinnamon

Cinnamon will soothe your stomach and also prevent further formation of gas.

• Add one-half teaspoon of cinnamon powder to a cup of warm milk. Stir it well and then drink it. You can also add some honey.
• Alternatively, you can make cinnamon tea by adding some cinnamon powder to a cup of boiling water. Let it steep for a few minutes and then drink it.

2. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar, used in the treatment of indigestion, can also help with gas. This remedy will soothe the stomach and give you instant relief. If apple cider vinegar is not available, you can try regular vinegar.

1. Add two teaspoons of apple cider vinegar to a glass of warm water.
2. Allow the water to cool to room temperature, and then drink it.

3. Ginger

Ginger is an effective indigestion treatment and is also great for relieving a gas problem.

• Take equal parts of ground ginger, fennel, and cardamom. Mix them thoroughly. Now, take a cup of water. Add one teaspoon of this mixture and a pinch of asafetida (hing) in it. Drink this once or twice a day.
• Alternatively, you can consume a little ginger juice mixed with a pinch of asafetida.
• To prevent gas from forming, chew a fresh piece of ginger regularly after meals. You can also add small amounts of dried or fresh ginger to your food.
• Drinking ginger tea can help control the formation of gas in the stomach. Boil one tablespoon of ground ginger in water for a few minutes. Drink this tea two or three times a day.
• Another option is to add a few drops of ginger essential oil to any kind of base oil and rub it on your stomach.

4. Buttermilk

Buttermilk, especially when combined with carom seeds and black salt works as an excellent Ayurvedic remedy to relieve gas and flatulence.

1. Mix one teaspoon each of carom seeds (ajwain) and black salt in a cup of buttermilk. If you do not have carom seeds, use celery seeds.
2. Drink this solution.

5. Baking Soda and Lemon

One conventional home treatment for gas is the use of lemon and baking soda, which combined makes an effective antacid.

• Put the juice of one fresh lemon in a glass and add some baking soda to it. This will cause fizzing. Add some more baking soda and a cup of water and stir it well so the baking soda dissolves completely. Drink this slowly.
• For instant relief from stomach gas, you can add a small amount of baking soda to a glass of water and drink it on empty stomach.

6. Garlic

The pungent heating quality present in garlic helps stimulate the gastric fire and thus offers relief from stomach gas.

• Try some garlic soup to reduce gas and help with proper digestion. For best results, use fresh garlic.
• You can also boil some ground garlic in water for a few minutes, adding a small amount of black pepper and cumin seeds. Strain it and let it cool to room temperature. Drink this two or three times a day to see results in a few days.

The severity of an upset stomach can range from slightly annoying to extremely uncomfortable and even painful. But if treated timely and effectively, it is usually not a serious problem.
An upset stomach often is coupled with diarrhea, which is the frequent passage of stools that are loose and watery.
There can be many causes of this problem, including food poisoning, an infection, an allergic reaction, overeating, too much stress, excessive drinking, motion sickness, a side effect of medication, a gastrointestinal disease or even pregnancy.
Symptoms vary depending on the cause, but may include watery or loose stools, abdominal bloating, cramps, heartburn, chills, nausea and vomiting.
To quickly alleviate symptoms and prevent health complications, try some simple home remedies at the first sign of trouble to soothe an upset stomach and restore regularity to your GI system.

Here are the top 10 home remedies for upset stomach.

1. Ginger

Ginger is a popular and highly effective ingredient to treat upset stomach. It has antifungal and antibacterial properties that help soothe stomach pains and relieve indigestion, as well as reducing the frequency of loose stools. It also contains chemicals that help relax the intestinal tract.

• Add one-half teaspoon of dry ginger powder to one cup of buttermilk, mix it well and drink this solution three or four times a day for two days. You can also add a pinch of asafetida also known as hing in this solution.
• Simmer a few slices of fresh ginger in two cups of boiling water for 10 minutes. Let it cool and then drink the tea several times a day.

Note: Ginger remedies are not suitable for those suffering from high blood pressure.

2. Apple Cider Vinegar

When it comes to home remedies for upset stomach, apple cider vinegar definitely ranks among the best. The high pectin concentration in apple cider vinegar soothes an irritated stomach and relieves nausea. Also, its acidic nature helps get things moving in a normal pattern.

1. Add one teaspoon of apple cider vinegar to a glass of water.
2. Add a little honey to make the solution taste a bit better.
3. Drink this with each meal until you get complete relief from your symptoms.

3. Yogurt

Another very promising ingredient used for treating upset stomach and indigestion is yogurt. Not just any yogurt, but the one that contains live bacteria cultures like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium.
These live bacteria cultures help restore the balance of good bacteria in your intestines, which in turn helps your body heal more effectively and quickly from indigestion and diarrhea.
Simply eat two to three cups of yogurt daily until you get relief. You can also add banana or apple slices to it to enhance the taste as well as effectiveness.

4. Bananas

Bananas are considered a super food for treating gastrointestinal problems like indigestion and loose stools.The fruit is easily digestible and helps absorb excess acid in the stomach.
It is rich in pectin that will help solidify stools. Also, the high potassium content present in bananas helps replace electrolytes that may be lost when suffering from diarrhea.

• Mash a ripe banana and mix it in a glass of buttermilk. Drink this two or three times daily for one to two days.
• Mash a ripe banana in a bowl and mix in one teaspoon of tamarind pulp and a little bit of salt. Eat this mixture twice daily for one to two days.

5. Mint

Mint, a very healthy and aromatic herb, has been used for ages to treat indigestion and relieve nausea. The antibacterial and antispasmodic properties in this herb help calm an upset stomach. Also, it contains antioxidants and phytonutrients that help improve digestion and stimulate bile flow.

• Use a blender to extract one teaspoon of mint juice from fresh mint leaves. Add one teaspoon each of honey and lime juice and mix it well. Drink this twice daily for two to three days to get rid of stomach ache and diarrhea.
• Add one teaspoon of dried mint leaves to one cup of boiling water. Let it stand for 10 minutes, and then strain it. Sip this refreshing tea several times a day. This will help greatly to calm an upset stomach and reduce indigestion.

6. Fenugreek Seeds

Another excellent home remedy to fight upset stomach and gastritis is fenugreek seeds. The high amount of mucilage present in fenugreek seeds helps bulk up your stool and thereby provides instant relief.

• Swallow one teaspoon of fenugreek seeds powder followed by one tablespoon of yogurt two to three times a day for immediate relief.
• Alternatively, add one to two teaspoons of fenugreek seeds powder to a glass of water. Drink it twice daily for two to three days.

Stomach Gas,flatulence and bloating during pregnancy

Why do I seem to have so much gas now that I'm pregnant?

Everyone, pregnant or not, has some gas. You may be surprised to learn that the average person produces between 1 and 4 pints of gas each day and passes gas about 14 to 23 times a day. Once you're pregnant, you may find yourself belching or passing gas a lot more than usual or having to unbutton your pants to relieve bloating weeks before you begin to show.

Video

Inside pregnancy: How food reaches your baby

A 3D animated look at how the food you eat gets broken down into tiny elements, is absorbed into your bloodstream, then passes through the placenta to your baby.

Why do you make more gas during pregnancy? The primary reason is that you have much higher levels of progesterone, a hormone that relaxes smooth muscle tissue throughout your body, including your gastrointestinal tract. This relaxation slows down your digestion, which can lead to gas, bloating, burping, and flatulence and generally create miserable sensations in your gut, especially after a big meal.
In later pregnancy, your growing uterus crowds your abdominal cavity, further slowing digestion, and pushes on your stomach, making you feel even more bloated after eating.
For the same reasons, you may also start to experience heartburn or constipation during pregnancy, even if you've never been bothered by them before.

Where does gas come from?

Gas gets caught in the digestive tract in two ways: when you swallow air and when bacteria in your colon (large intestine) break down undigested food. Most stomach gas results from swallowing air and is typically released by burping, though a small amount can continue down to the large intestine to be released as flatulence.
Most of the gas that causes flatulence is produced when bacteria in the large intestine break down food that was incompletely digested by enzymes in the stomach and small intestine. Certain carbohydrates are the main culprits. (Protein and fat produce little gas directly, although fats, because they slow down digestion, can contribute to a sense of bloating and gassiness.)
Some people get a lot of gas from foods that don't bother others at all. For example, lactose intolerant folks get bloated and gassy if they have dairy products like milk or ice cream. That's because they don't make enough lactase – the enzyme that breaks down lactose (the sugar in dairy products). Individual variation in the balance of bacteria in the colon may also affect how much gas you make.

Can I get some relief by changing my diet?

The most effective way to reduce gas may be to cut back on the foods that are most likely to cause it. But if you eliminated everything that might cause gas, it would be hard to eat a balanced diet.

So start by cutting out the most likely culprits, and if that gives you relief, begin adding those foods back into your diet one by one to try to pinpoint what's causing the problem for you. Keeping a food diary can help you see the relationship between eating certain foods and having more gas.

Beans, whole grains, and certain vegetables – such as cabbage, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, and asparagus – are common offenders. They contain the sugar raffinose, which makes a lot of people gassy.
Some people have trouble if they have too much fructose, a sugar present in various foods. A relatively high amount of naturally occurring fructose is present in leeks, onions and scallions, artichokes, dried fruit, pears, apples, honey, and wheat.
Many sodas and fruit drinks are sweetened with a form of fructose called high fructose corn syrup. (It's a good idea to avoid sodas and fruit drinks anyway because they're empty calories and the carbonation in sodas can contribute to bloating.) Many processed foods are also made with high fructose corn syrup.
Certain starches (such as wheat, corn, and potatoes, but not rice) can cause gas for some people. And certain fiber-rich foods (such as oat bran, beans, peas, and many kinds of fruit) cause gas because they're normally broken down in the large intestine.
Wheat bran, on the other hand, basically passes through your digestive system without getting broken down. This makes wheat bran a good choice if you have constipation and need more fiber but also suffer from flatulence.
People who are lactose intolerant will find that dairy products give them gas. If you're highly lactose intolerant, you probably knew this before you got pregnant, since dairy may give you diarrhea and abdominal pain.
If you're only somewhat lactose intolerant and haven't been aware of dairy having any effect on you, a dramatic boost in your consumption of dairy products during pregnancy may cause you some distress. To avoid this problem, look for lactose-free milk or calcium-fortified soy milk in your supermarket. (If you aren't drinking any kind of milk, you'll probably need to take a calcium supplement.)
Finally, try to steer clear of high-fat and fried foods.

What else can I do to get relief?

These suggestions may lessen the frequency and severity of your symptoms:

• Don't eat big meals. Instead, eat several small meals throughout the day.
• Take your time and chew thoroughly. Don't talk while you're eating.
• Limit how much you drink during meals. You can make up for it during the rest of the day.
• Drink from a cup or glass ­– not from a bottle or through a straw – and don't gulp your beverages.
• Avoid carbonated drinks.
• Avoid anything sweetened with sorbitol, an artificial sweetener.
• Sit up while you're eating or drinking, even if you're just having a small snack.
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing, and avoid any tightness around your waist and tummy.
• Don't chew gum or suck on hard candies.
• Get moving. Even a brisk walk can help your sluggish digestive tract.
• Take care of constipation, since it can add to flatulence and a feeling of abdominal bloating.
• Don't smoke. In addition to contributing to a host of serious health problems, smoking boosts stomach acidity. (Ideally, this is a habit you should break before getting pregnant. If you're still smoking and having trouble quitting, ask your caregiver for a referral to a smoking-cessation program.)
• Consider practicing yoga or a similar discipline to learn relaxation and good breathing techniques. Some people who are prone to hyperventilating tend to swallow more air when they're excited or anxious.
• If these relief measures don't help, ask your practitioner whether you can take an over-the-counter gas remedy that contains simethicone. (Don't take activated charcoal tablets, because they aren't safe during pregnancy.)

Can gas pain ever be a sign that something is wrong?

Call your practitioner if your intestinal discomfort ever feels more like abdominal pain or cramping or is accompanied by blood in your stool, severe diarrhea, constipation, or an increase in (or a new bout of) nausea and vomiting.

Why do you feel flatulence,bloating and stomach gas/ pain?

 Why do you feel flatulence,bloating and pain?

Bloating, gassiness, and abdominal discomfort aren’t limited to the occasional holiday feast. One in 10 Americans say they suffer from bloating regularly, even when they haven’t eaten a large meal. In some cases, bloating can become severe enough that it causes distention, or a perceptible swelling of the abdomen. Bloating and gas are usually tied to what and how you eat, so a few simple changes may help.

Keep Bloating at Bay

Here are three common causes of bloating, and how you can avoid them.

1. Overeating is probably the most common cause of bloating. Smaller portions should ease the pain.
2. Eating rich and fatty food can make you feel uncomfortably stuffed. Fat takes longer to digest than protein or carbohydrates, so it keeps the stomach full longer. Avoid bloating by limiting fats in your everyday diet.
3. Eating too fast adds to the risk of bloating after a meal. The remedy is simple -‑ eat more slowly. Satiety signals can take up to 20 minutes to reach the brain and dampen appetite. Many weight loss experts believe that eating slowly helps prevent overeating.

Reducing Gassiness

The second most common cause of temporary bloating is gas in the abdomen. About half of gas in the digestive system is swallowed air. The rest is produced by bacteria in the gut that help digest food. If the gastrointestinal tract does not move it through efficiently, gas builds up in the intestines, causing bloating and discomfort.
If you frequently experience bloating caused by gas, avoid these habits that increase how much air you swallow.

• drinking through a straw
• chewing gum
• guzzling carbonated beverages
• sucking on hard candy.

Some people swallow more air when they’re nervous. It’s possible that practicing ways to reduce stress and anxiety, such as breathing exercises or progressive muscle relaxation, may help reduce excess gas and bloating.

Avoid Bloat-Inducing Foods

Difficult-to-digest foods can cause gassiness and bloating. These are some familiar culprits.

1. Beans and lentils contain indigestible sugars called oligosaccharides. These sugars must be broken down by bacteria in the intestines.
2. Fruits and vegetables such as Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, carrots, prunes, apricots. These contain sugars and starches that may cause gassiness and bloating.
3. Sweeteners can also cause gas and bloating. Sorbitol, an artificial sweetener, can’t be digested. Fructose, a natural sugar added to many processed foods, is difficult for many people to digest. To avoid bloating, be aware of these sweeteners in the foods you eat and limit the amount you consume.
4. Dairy products can be a source of intestinal distress and bloating if you have trouble digesting lactose, or milk sugar.
5. Whole grains, recommended for their many health benefits, can sometimes cause bloating and gas problems. One reason whole grains are so healthy is their high fiber content. But fiber is an indigestible carbohydrate. Abruptly increasing the amount of fiber you eat can cause gas, bloating, and constipation. Nutritionists recommend slowly increasing the fiber in your diet to allow your body time to adjust. At the same time, drink plenty of water with high-fiber foods, says nutritionist Joanne L. Slavin, PhD, RD, professor of food science and nutrition at the University of Minnesota. “All fiber absorbs water,” she explains. Drinking liquids helps fiber move through the digestive system and prevents bloating and constipation.

When to Ask Your Doctor About Bloating

Temporary bloating is common and nothing to worry about. But if you’re troubled by bloating on a regular basis, talk to your doctor.
Physical obstructions such as scarring of the stomach opening can make it hard for food to pass through the digestive tract normally. If your doctor diagnoses a physical obstruction in the stomach or small intestines, surgery may be required to correct it. Bloating can also be caused by impaired muscle function in the digestive tract. When muscles that normally move food along don’t work properly, gas can build up in the small intestines, causing bloating. In some cases, gas in the intestines may go the wrong way, returning to the stomach.
Persistent bloating or distention may also signal potentially serious conditions, such as enlargement of one of the abdominal organs or a malignancy.

What Else You Can Do About Bloating

If eliminating or reducing consumption of hard-to-digest foods doesn’t solve your frequent bloating problem, there are over-the-counter medications that might help. Look for a pill or liquid containing alpha-D-galactosidase, an enzyme that breaks down indigestible sugars in beans and vegetables. Tablets or capsules containing simethicone can also help alleviate symptoms of excess gas.
If you’re a smoker, intestinal distress may be one more reason to quit. Smoking has been linked to bloating, heartburn, and other digestive problems.
Fortunately, bloating is rarely a symptom of serious trouble. For most people, the most effective prescription for bloating is simple: control portion sizes, go easy on fats, and eat slowly enough to give your body time to signal when you’ve had enough. These sensible remedies should keep you from feeling overstuffed and bloated.

Excessive Gas and the Foods You Eat

To avoid embarrassing intestinal gas and uncomfortable bloating, know which gas-producing foods to limit. 

 

Although passing gas can be embarrassing, it’s also perfectly normal. Most people pass gas or belch more than 20 times a day. Your gut produces excessive gas for a number of reasons — swallowing too much air or changes in your diet, for example. Other common causes of gas are food intolerance and difficulty digesting certain foods. Even things that are good for you, such as fiber-filled foods, also cause gas, so eating them slowly and limiting or avoiding those that give you severe intestinal gas can help ensure you get good nutrition without all the bloating and discomfort.

Gas-Producing Foods: Vegetables

 

The sugars in some vegetables can lead to intestinal gas as they’re digested. Onions and artichokes contain fructose, a type of sugar, while another sugar, raffinose, is found in asparagus, brussels sprouts, broccoli, and cabbage, among others. Vegetables that have soluble fiber, like peas, can cause gas as they’re digested in the large intestine. Those with insoluble fiber should pass through without discomfort or excessive gas.

Gas-Producing Foods: Fruits

 

Some fruits contain another sugar, called sorbitol, which causes excessive gas. The biggest culprits include prunes, apples, peaches, and pears. Sugar-free gum and candy are sweetened with sorbitol, which is why they can lead to excessive gas, too. Fruits also contain soluble fiber, which when digested in the large intestine produces gas as a byproduct.

Gas-Producing Foods: Starchy Foods

 

Starches, which are very high in carbohydrates, can cause gas when your digestive tract goes through the process of breaking them down. At the top of the list are foods made with wheat, including breads, cereals, and pastas, all of which can lead to intestinal gas. Other common gas-producing foods in this category are corn and potatoes. Unlike all the other starches, the one that doesn’t seem to create intestinal gas is rice.

Gas-Producing Foods: Milk and Dairy Products

 

Milk and other dairy products contain a sugar called lactose, which can be difficult for your digestive tract to process if your body doesn’t have enough of the enzyme lactase. Cheese, ice cream, and milk all contain lactose, and may cause excessive gas in people. Those with lactose intolerance may need to skip these foods to avoid intestinal gas and belly pain.

Gas-Producing Foods: Oats 

 

Though oatmeal makes a healthy and delicious breakfast, packed full of cholesterol-reducing fiber, it's also one of the foods that can cause intestinal gas. Oatmeal, oatmeal cookies, and other oat products — including oat bran — can all result in excessive gas because of their high soluble-fiber content. If you want to eat oats for their many health benefits, try slowly adding them to your diet in limited quantities to give your body time to adjust. If you’re a fan of oat bran, try switching to wheat bran, which is high in insoluble fiber that passes through the body, usually without a problem.

Gas-Producing Foods: Beans

 

Everyone knows the ditty: "Beans, beans, the musical fruit…" As nutritious as beans are, they’re notorious as a major gas-producing food. Beans create excessive gas for two reasons. First, they have a high raffinose content — the same gas-causing sugar found in certain vegetables. Second, beans also contain soluble fiber, whose digestion releases intestinal gas. Keep track not only of the amount of beans you eat, but also of other gas-producing foods you might be eating them with, like the cheese and onions you sprinkle on your three-bean chili. Or try an over-the-counter digestive aid like Beano

Gas-Producing Foods: Sodas and Soft Drinks

 

A fizzy soda or sweet, fruity drink may taste delicious and refreshing, but your belly may have trouble digesting it — and uncomfortable stomach gas may be the result. The carbonation in sodas and soft drinks is just air, which can result in uncomfortable and excessive gas. Fructose, the sugar used to sweeten some of these beverages, can also be difficult to digest, resulting in intestinal gas.

Sensitive Stomachs and the problems with it

Coping With Diarrhea and Digestive Distress

Secrets to Gas Control

The average person passes gas 14 to 23 times a day. Knowing it’s healthy and normal doesn’t always keep it from being embarrassing. If you’re tired of silly jokes and occasional upset, a few simple tips may help you take charge of bloating and gassiness.

Watch What You Eat

The friendly bacteria in our guts help digest foods that our bodies have trouble breaking down. These bacteria also produce gas, usually as they digest food in the large intestines. Foods most often linked to intestinal gas include:

• Beans and lentils
• Asparagus, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, and other vegetables
• Fructose, a natural sugar found in artichokes, onions, pears, wheat, and some soft drinks
• Lactose, the natural sugar found in milk
• Fruits, oat bran, peas, and other foods high in soluble fiber, which gets digested in your large intestine
• Corn, pasta, potatoes, and other foods rich in starch
• Sorbitol, the artificial sweetener
• Whole grains, such as brown rice, oatmeal, and whole wheat

That list covers a whole lot of healthy food, but you don’t have to severely restrict your diet. Most likely just a few give you gas. "Some people have problems digesting milk. Others don’t," says Lawrence R. Kosinski, MD, MBA, a spokesman for the American Gastroenterological Association. "And food sensitivities may change with age. Many people develop problems digesting milk products as they get older, for instance."
Two simple steps can help you discover your problem foods.

1. Keep a food diary. When you have bloating or gas, look back over the foods you’ve eaten within the last few hours – that’s typically when gas occurs.
2. Experiment, one by one, with the foods you suspect. Eat one of the foods by itself. Does it give you gas? If not, wait a day, then experiment with another of your suspect foods. Keep going through the list on different days until you find the food that gives you gas.

Adjust Your Diet

The best way to reduce gassiness is to avoid foods that cause problems. If a healthy food gives you gas – such as whole grains and vegetables -- reduce the amount you eat. Then, gradually start eating more of the food – increasing the amount bit by bit over weeks – to give your digestive system time to adjust.

Consider a Supplement

Some supplements contain digestive enzymes that break down hard-to-digest foods. You can buy the enzyme lactase over the counter if dairy products give you gas.  A product called Beano helps break down gas-producing sugars in beans.

Avoid Swallowing Air

We all swallow small amounts of air. That’s normal. When we swallow too much air – called aerophagia -- it causes abdominal bloating, gas, or belching. Pay attention to things you do that may make you swallow more air than you need, such as:

• Chewing gum
• Drinking carbonated sodas
• Eating too quickly
• Smoking
• Wearing loose dentures

Stress can also make you swallow too much air. "Often people aren’t even aware that they’re gulping down air," Kosinski says. "If you’re feeling anxious or [are] under a lot of stress, look for ways to relax. Or talk to your doctor about stress reduction techniques."

Get Moving

Walking, bicycling, running, and other forms of exercise can help move gas through your digestive tract, easing bloating.

Talk to Your Doctor if You’re Worried

If lifestyle changes don’t help, and you’re bloated or gassy often, talk to your doctor.
"Bloating or abnormal amounts of intestinal gas can be a symptom of celiac disease, irritable bowel syndrome, bacterial overgrowth, or problems associated with the pancreas," Kosinski says. "Certain medications can also cause intestinal gas. So it’s definitely important to mention it to your doctor if you’re worried."
Your doctor may suggest tests to rule out underlying problems. If the culprit is simply the foods you love, your doctor can also prescribe medicine -- a gastrointestinal stimulant -- that moves gas through your intestines more quickly.

 

 

Foods That Cause Bloating, Flatulence, and Gas

While bloating, burping, and flatulence are normal bodily functions – a result of the breakdown process while digesting food, and/or swallowing air – if gas and bloating and gas pains are becoming embarrassing, or interfering with your peace of mind and/or your daily activities, it’s time to explore solutions.

Gas, bloating and flatulence may be a sign of something serious such as gluten intolerance, malabsorption or menopause. For many people, though, it’s simply the result of a combination of things such as the food they eat, a diminished supply of digestive enzymes due to the aging process, vitamin deficiency, and/or poor dietary habits.

There are numerous reasons for excessive gas, bloating and flatulence, but diet often plays a crucial role. If you’d like to “clear the air,” temporarily avoiding certain foods known to cause flatulence and bloating can help to identify any dietary causes of gassiness. Once flatulence/gas-producing food sources have been determined and/or eliminated, and an Anti-Flatulence Diet implemented, along with other treatments for gassiness – multi-vitamins, probiotic supplementation, digestive enzymes, and colon cleansings – may still need to be explored.

How To Reduce Gas, Bloating and Flatulence

The best place to begin is by tracking and, if necessary, altering your diet. For some, the results are satisfying, but often there are underlying problems, as well as simple age-related issues, that cannot be completely resolved through dietary changes. Medicines, menopause, smoking, stress, the amount of air one swallows each day, vitamin deficiency, and gastrointestinal intolerances, conditions, and disease can all play a role in excess gas production. 

Part 1: What Foods Cause Bloating, Flatulence and Gas?

Keep Track of What You Eat

Keep a food diary (yuck - but it works) with a record of what you’ve eaten and your body’s reaction to it. If you notice an increase in flatulence and bloating after eating specific foods, decrease or eliminate your intake of them. If you’re having difficulty identifying flatulence and bloating-producing foods, make a list of foods you know are safe, and then add a new food every forty-eight hours to try to identify the problem food.

Keep in mind that everyone’s digestive system is different; some peoples’ systems struggle to break down certain foods while others can eat them without any problems.

Many carbohydrate-containing foods cause gas and bloating (vs. fats and proteins, which produce very little gas). Starch-containing foods such as corn, noodles, pasta, potatoes, and wheat, also produce gas.

Carbohydrate Vegetables:	Breads, Grains, Cereals, and Nuts:	Dairy Products:
Artichokes	Bagels	Cheese
Asparagus	Barley	Chip Dips
Beets	Breakfast Cereals	Ice Cream
Broccoli	Granola	Milk
Brussel Sprouts	Oat Bran	Salad Dressings
Cabbage and Sauerkraut	Oat Flour
Carrots	Pastries
Cauliflower	Pistachios
Celery	Rice Bran
Corn	Rye
Cucumber	Sesame Flour
Green Peppers	Sorghum
Kohirabi	Sunflower Flour
Leeks	Whole Grain Breads
Legumes	Whole Wheat Flour
Lettuce	Wheat Bran
Onions
Parsley
Potatoes
Radishes
Rutabaga
Sweet Peppers
Turnips
Zucchini
Notes: Carbohydrates are the biggest culprits when it comes to gas producers because they’re made up of polysaccharides, which have long chains of difficult-to-digest sugars.	Notes: Some people can’t digest wheat properly which can lead to fermentation and gas build-up when eating wheat and wheat products.  See our Anti-Flatulence Diet for suggestions on alternatives and substitutes.	Notes: Often, though, they can eat aged cheeses and/or yogurt without experiencing any digestive upset. Eggs, while not technically a dairy product, cause gassiness for some people. See our Anti-Flatulence Diet for great dairy alternatives.

Another word about dairy...

The sugar lactose in dairy foods is a common cause of gas, which can sometimes be an indication of lactose intolerance. This is a condition in which the lactose in milk and other dairy products can’t be properly digested.

If you think you may be lactose intolerant, eliminate all dairy products from your diet for a ten- to fourteen-day period. Monitor your body’s response to see whether or not there is a reduction of flatulence. If there is, decrease or eliminate your dairy intake of dairy, or use lactase supplements prior to eating to help with digestion of dairy.

Our Anti-Flatulence Diet includes suggestions for people who love traditional comfort food such as baked goods and cereal with milk.

Fatty foods:

Fried food – such as anything pan- or deep-fried – along with fatty meats, gravies, pastries, rich creams, and some sauces are foods that can cause gas.

Fruit/fruit sugar:

Apples, apricots, bananas, melons, peaches, pears, prunes, and raisins, as well as juices made from apples, grapes, and prunes can trigger gas and bloating.

See The Anti-Flatulence Diet for suggestions on fruit that tends to be “less gassy.”

Soluble fiber:

Found in most fruits – as well as in beans, oat bran, and peas – soluble fiber doesn’t get broken down until it reaches the large intestine, which can result in gassiness. Insoluble fiber produces very little gas.

Other Food Products That Cause Gas

The sweeteners used in sugar-free candies and chocolate can cause digestive problems. Known as sugar alcohols, they’re found in an assortment of food products and beverages ranging from sugarless chewing gum and hardy candy, to sports, carbonated, and sparkling beverages.

Beware of labels that say “sugar-free” as there’s a high likelihood that sugar alcohols have been used to replace the sugar. Manufactured from cornstarch, erythritol, maltitol, mannitol, sorbitol, and xylitol are examples of common sugar alcohols.

Additionally, carbonated drinks can cause bloating because the carbon dioxide bubbles they contain foster the formation of gas.

Dark beer and red wine also contribute to excess gas production.

Part 2: Further Gas and Flatulence Facts to Consider

Many facts need to be taken into consideration when trying to determine what’s behind excess gas. Foods are by no means the only cause; once diet has been explored, other common issues must be considered.

Habits, Health, and Digestive Dysfunction

Medicines, stress, smoking, and even the amount of air one swallows each day contribute to gas production.

Some prescription – narcotic pain medicines for example – and non-prescription medicines can cause gas. Check with your health care provider for a list of what to avoid and possible substitutes.

Stress can lead to an excess of stomach acid, which may – in turn – result in a build-up of intestinal gas.

Gastrointestinal infections, blockages, and various other digestive problems and diseases can result in gassiness. For example, upper gastrointestinal (GI) disorders such as peptic ulcer disease, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and gastroparesis (also known as delayed gastric emptying) can lead to chronic belching. Ask your health care provider to rule out any GI disorders that may be the underlying cause of excessive gas production.

Swallowing too much air throughout the day can cause gas build-up. Reduce the amount of air you swallow:

• Eat and drink slowly
• Avoid talking while you eat, carbonated beverages, drinking through a straw, and/or chewing gum and eating hard candy (part of what you are swallowing is air)
• Ensure dentures fit properly (poor-fitting dentures can cause excess air-swallowing when eating and drinking)
• Avoid smoking (air is inhaled and swallowed when you smoke)

The Connection Between Menopause and Digestive Maladies

A lot of women say that their problems with digestion began during their peri-menopausal years…a transitional time prior to menopause that can begin as early as thirty-five. One of the primary causes of digestive problems in women forty-five to fifty-five years of age is hormonal imbalance.¹ Menopausal gas and indigestion are often brought on by the natural slow down of the gastrointestinal tract’s processes as a woman ages.

Vitamin Deficiency and Digestive Disorders

As we age, the various systems of our bodies often don’t function as well as they used to. Men and women experience digestive disorders in middle age because their digestive systems are no longer as efficient at absorbing vitamins and nutrients from the food they eat. This coupled with the poor diets that many Americans consume is a sure-fire recipe for gassiness.

Very often eliminating foods that commonly cause gas and bloating doesn't work for us.  That's a sign that your body needs a little help to get relief.

Upset stomach got you down? Gas, bloating, and bathroom problems are a constant battle for many people -- often the symptoms are related to diet, but there are some more serious medical conditions that may be the culprit.

Gas, Bloating: Always Uncomfortable?

Most people know that beans, broccoli, and onions can cause gas, but what most people don't suspect are fruits, sodas, and milk. Fructose (a sugar found in fruits and sodas) and lactose (a sugar found in dairy products) are common causes of gas, bloating, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea.

Lactose intolerance is extremely common. It is estimated that 30 to 50 million Americans have some degree of lactose intolerance. Certain racial and ethnic populations are more affected than others, including 75% of African Americans, Jews, Hispanics, and Native Americans, and 90% of Asians.

Fructose intolerance is also common, but less recognized. A study presented at the annual meeting of the American College of Gastroenterology in Seattle by University of Kansas researcher Peter Beyer, RD, finds that nearly half of normal people get gas from fructose. This common fruit sugar is found in fruit juice and is used as a sweetener in some soft drinks.

Experts suggest that you keep a diary of foods that you eat and their relation to your symptoms and take that information to your doctor. Careful review of diet and the amount of gas passed may help relate specific foods to symptoms and determine the severity of the problem.

In addition, there are tests your doctor can perform to diagnose lactose and fructose intolerance. In fact, because of how common it is, Beyer suggests that people with these symptoms should get breath tests to see if fructose is the root cause of the problem.

But other researchers think that many cases of gas, bloating, and bathroom problems may be related to another condition: irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Mugdha Gore, PhD, an independent researcher based in Philadelphia, has studied the issue. In a survey of more than 650 people diagnosed with intestinal disorders, she found that the majority had IBS -- and were getting no relief from medications.

She presented her report this week at the annual meeting of the American College of Gastroenterology in Seattle.

Indeed, IBS is one of the most common intestinal disorders, and can be difficult to diagnose, says Gore. For many people, the symptoms alternate frequently. While gas and bloating are the constants, there may be abdominal pain or discomfort, plus altered bowel habits -- people may be constipated one week, have diarrhea the next, or have a sudden urge to have a bowel movement. The pattern varies from person to person, she says.

Experts don't know the exact cause of IBS, but suspect it may be triggered by stress, hormones, and nerve signal disruptions in the brain.

10 foods that cause bloating

If you’ve ever felt bloated, you’ll know the symptoms: you start the day with a flat stomach, but as the day progresses your belly starts to swell, feeling full and tight, until by the end of the day, you look like you're pregnant. It can be so bad that you can’t close a pair of pants that fitted perfectly a few days earlier!
Bloating is a result of excess gas in the intestines. There are many possible causes for this highly uncomfortable condition, ranging from air swallowing, overeating, constipation and hormonal changes during PMS to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine, certain medications, gastroesophageal reflux and food intolerances. Abdominal bloating can also be caused by more serious disorders such as coeliac disease, Crohn’s disease and colon cancer.
If you constantly experience abdominal bloating and pain, it is important to see your doctor to make sure there is nothing serious present.
However, in many cases bloating can be eased by simple changes in your diet. It’s a good idea to keep a food diary for a week: make a note of everything you eat and how you feel afterwards. Pretty soon you should be able to spot a pattern and identify the culprit.

The following foods can cause bloating:
1) Greasy, fried foods
Greasy fast foods like burgers, chips, fried chicken and deep-fried eats like samoosas, koeksisters and doughnuts can cause bloating because it takes the stomach much longer to break down the fats and properly digest them. This extra time allows gas to build up, causing bloating.
2) Salty foods
Salt is a big culprit when it comes to bloating. High-sodium foods cause the body to retain water, which leads to a bloated feeling.  Sodium can show up in some unlikely sources, especially in processed foods, so read your food labels and rather flavour your foods with herbs.
3) Spicy foods
Spicy foods have been shown to stimulate the release of stomach acid, which can cause irritation. Limit the use of black pepper, nutmeg, cloves, chilli powder, curry, onions, garlic, mustard, BBQ sauce, horseradish, tomato sauce and vinegar.
4) Gassy vegetables
Some vegetables produce more gas than others do, and everyone varies in their ability to absorb and tolerate that gas. If you're sensitive, you may want to limit the amount of gas-producing vegetables such as the following:  baked beans, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, lentils, Lima beans, onions and peppers.
5) Carbonated and high-acid drinks
All carbonated drinks - from sodas to fizzy mineral water - can cause bloating because the carbon dioxide trapped in the bubbles creates gas in the stomach. Some beverages such as alcohol, caffeinated drinks, coffee, tea, hot chocolate and some fruit juices (like orange juice, pineapple juice and tomato juice) are high in acid which can irritate your GI tract, resulting in swelling and bloating.
6) Artificial sweeteners
Certain artificial sweeteners, such as aspartame, saccharin, sorbitol, xylitol, maltitol, mannitol, cyclamates and sucralose can increase bloating. These are often found in diet drinks, sweets, cookies, energy bars and chewing gums. The artificial sweeteners linger in the stomach because they cannot be digested, and after enough build-up they act as a platform for the fermentation of bacteria, leading to production of gas.

7) Dairy products
If your body is unable to digest lactose, or milk sugar, the consumption of dairy products can make you feel bloated. This condition, called lactose-intolerance, is relatively common, especially among people of Asian, African and Southern European descent. The lactose that is not completely digested will pass to the colon where gas is produced by the bacteria trying to break it down. If you suspect that you are lactose intolerant, consult a dietician to ensure adequate consumption of other calcium-rich foods.
8) Too much fruit
Just as some people are lactose-intolerant, others are fructose-intolerant, and their bodies cannot digest the sugar properly. If you find you have excess gas and bloating after eating fruit, this may apply to you. Choose lower-fructose fruits, like sweet melon and apricots, instead of high-fructose fruits like apples and bananas. It is also best to eat fruit separately from a meal - either 30 minutes before or at least two hours after.
9) Starches
Most starches, including potatoes, maize, pasta, and wheat produce gas as they are broken down in the large intestine. If you find that you are particularly sensitive to a starch, substitute it with rice - the only starch that does not cause gas. Also, beware of refined graines like white flour that's often used in white bread, cake and biscuits. Not only do they offer little nutrition, they can also cause water retention, with bloating as a result.
10) Chewing gum
Chewing gum can make you swallow air, which then gets trapped in your belly, causing pressure, bloating, and gas. It also often contains artificial sweeteners which will just aggravate the bloating.

Natural Remedies for Bloating, Gas and Flatulence

Gas, flatulence, and bloating can be uncomfortable and embarrassing. Fortunately, there are some natural remedies that can help. Before trying any natural remedy, it's important to consult a qualified health care provider to rule out other causes.
Also read my article, Healthy and Unhealthy Stool to find out what the color of your poop says about your health.

1) Swallowed Air

Some people habitually swallow air, called aerophagia. They're usually unaware they do this, and the cause is often anxiety-related.
The gas swallowed is composed mainly of oxygen and nitrogen. Most of the oxygen is absorbed by the mucous lining of the gut or is used up by colon bacteria, with very little ending up in flatulence.
Nitrogen, on the other hand, is poorly absorbed by the mucous lining and most of the swallowed nitrogen ends up in flatulence.
Treatment Strategies:

1. Becoming aware that air is being swallowed can help. People become conscious of their breathing patterns.
2. Relaxation techniques such as progressive muscle relaxation or the relaxation response may help to reduce anxiety. Also find out about other natural remedies for anxiety.
3. Avoid lying down after eating. Gas from the stomach passes into the intestines more readily in this position.

2) Poorly Absorbed Carbohydrates

Hydrogen and carbon dioxide are produced by colon bacteria in the presence of poorly absorbed carbohydrates. If flatulence is accompanied by diarrhea and weight loss, it may indicate a malabsorption disorder such as lactose intolerance or pancreatic insufficiency, and should be evaluated by your primary health care provider.
More common is excess flatulence after eating large amounts of poorly absorbed carbohydrates such as beans or foods to which you have a food sensitivity. Common food sensitivities include milk and wheat products.
Treatment Strategies:

1. Chew food carefully. Carbohydrate digestion begins in the mouth. Any work your teeth don't do, your stomach will have to do later.
2. An alternative practitioner may suggest an elimination and challenge diet. This is a diagnostic diet to help uncover food sensitivities and intolerances.
3. Consult your primary care provider to rule out malabsorption disorder if you are also experiencing weight loss and diarrhea.

3) Gas and Flatulence After High-Fat Meals

Eating a high-fat meal can generate a large amount of carbon dioxide, some of which is released as gas. That's because carbon dioxide is produced in the small intestine when bicarbonate is released to neutralize stomach acid and fat during meals.
Treatment Strategies:

1. Eat smaller, more frequent meals instead of three large meals.
2. Avoid high-fat meals.
3. Consult your primary care provider to rule out the possibility of fat malabsorption. Signs of fat malabsorption include loose and light-colored stools.

4) Odorous Flatulence and Gas

Gas that has a strong odor usually results from the metabolism of sulfur-containing proteins and amino acids in the intestines.
Treatment Strategies:

1. Chew meat and other protein foods carefully. Avoid excessive protein in your diet.
2. Taking activated charcoal tablets can help to remove the odor.

5) Eating Foods that Produce Gas

Certain foods are inherently gas-producing. Gas-producing foods include beans, cabbage, onions, brussels sprouts, cauliflower, broccoli, fluffy wheat products such as bread, apples, peaches, pears, prunes, corn, oats, potatoes, milk, ice cream, and soft cheese.
Foods that produce minimal gas include rice, bananas, citrus, grapes, hard cheese, meat, eggs, peanut butter, non-carbonated beverages, and yogurt made with live bacteria.

6) Other Conditions

When someone has persisting bloating and flatulence, lab tests and x-rays are first conducted to exclude the presence of medical disease. Colorectal cancer often presents with the symptoms of abdomen discomfort and bloating. Celiac disease and inflammatory bowel disease may have similar symptoms.
It's important to remember that gas and bloating are vague symptoms that can be associated with many medical diseases, so consultation with your primary care provider should always be the first step.

 

According to the Mayo Clinic Health Letter, the following foods are likely to cause gassiness:

• Dairy products, which contain sugar lactose that causes gas.
• Vegetables, including onions, radishes, cabbage, celery, carrots, brussel sprouts, broccoli, cauliflower and legumes.