Have you ever experienced pushing yourself to the limit by eating much more than what you can take? Or have you ever tried being constipated for days? These scenarios most often result to a condition wherein your belly or abdomen feels uncomfortably full and tight. That seemingly common condition which strikes people of all ages is called abdominal bloating. This is an intestinal disorder that can make your abdomen expand but not in a way that you’d gain extra pounds of belly flat.
Bloating is an indication which suggests that food is not properly digested by the body. This can be a result of various factors such as overeating, which in most cases often lead to indigestion, constipation, or collection of intestinal gas in your digestive system. Once you experience abdominal bloating, you don’t just have a difficulty in zipping up your pants because of a few inches added to your waistline, but it can cause physical discomfort as well as lower self-esteem due to the fact that bloating can make you look fat. Beat abdominal bloating with these 3 things that can definitely give you a sense of relief.
- Peppermint oil. Be it in a capsule form or in a simple and tasty peppermint tea, this herb is proven to be an effective remedy in beating abdominal bloating. The menthol component of this herb is not only capable of providing flavors for gums but menthol contains relaxant and antispasmodic properties which can soothe smooth muscles on the digestive tract. It has the capacity to improve the flow of food and accumulated air through the digestive tract and aid proper digestion. Peppermint is also considered as a carminative herb which means that it has a gas-relieving characteristic.
- Water. Drinking enough glasses of water a day enhances food digestion while an inadequate intake of water causes the abdomen to bloat. By drinking more water, the body releases more fluids and potentially lessens the bloating. Keeping the body well hydrated can efficiently improve the functioning of the digestive system. Also remember that drinking too much water while eating is not advisable.
- Chamomile. Chamomile tea has been used since ancient times to dismiss the discomfort of abdominal bloating. It is well-known for its relaxing and sedative properties. This herb has antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties which can heal the digestive ailments like abdominal bloating. It also has components that can relieve accumulated gases present in the digestive tract.
It is also important to consider that aside from the minor causes of abdominal bloating, this condition can also be a symptom of a more serious illness. So if you don’t think that the cause of your abdominal bloating is one of those primary suspects, it is best to seek medical advice from a professional.