Stomach bloating: Dr. Oz advises on how to 'beat the bloat'
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Stomach bloating can be unsightly and uncomfortable, dampening a good mood, and it has probably occurred more than once during this holiday season. By keeping stock of one type of drink, you could help beat the bloat in no time. Described to have a “cool” and “refreshing” flavour, dietician Marsha McCulloch said peppermint tea can help to soothe digestive issues. “Test tube and animal studies suggest that plant compounds called flavonoids found in peppermint may inhibit the activity of mast cells,” noted McCulloch.
“These are immune system cells that are abundant in your gut and sometimes contribute to bloating.”
McCulloch also pointed out that research has shown that peppermint “relaxes the gut”, which may relieve bloating and painful symptoms.
Dr Stacy Sampson also shared her expertise on bloating: “Exercises, supplements, and massages can all help to reduce bloating quickly.”
Bloating is caused by a build-up of gas along the gastrointestinal tract, making the belly appear larger than usual, which may feel tender.
Dr Sampson concurred that you can “speed up” how quickly a bloated belly returns to normal.
She too recommends the use of peppermint, although Dr Sampson suggest trying peppermint capsules.
“Peppermint works by relaxing the intestinal muscles, which allows gas and stool to move along more effectively,” she explained.
While peppermint supplements tend to be marketed towards those who have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Dr Sampson assured that “people without IBS can also use them to relieve bloating”.
Dr Sampson also recommends abdominal massages, which can help get the bowels moving along.
“A massage that follows the path of the large intestine is especially helpful,” said Dr Sampson.
There are four steps in order to do an optimised abdominal massage. These include:
- Placing the hands just above the right hip bone.
- Rubbing in a circular motion with light pressure up toward the right side of the ribcage.
- Rubbing straight across the upper belly area toward the left rib cage.
- Moving slowly down toward the left hip bone.
Then you are advised to keep repeating the same four moves as often as necessary.
Another free way to get things moving is to take a walk following a large meal.
“Getting the bowels to move is especially important if a person is feeling constipated,” said Dr Sampson.
Walking can provide “fast relief” from gas pressure building up in the intestines, thereby minimising the risk of an extended bloat.
For those not wanting to venture outside in the cold, or rain, a warm bath could also be effective.
“The heat of the bath can provide relief for a sore abdomen,” explained Dr Sampson.
Furthermore, taking a bath can be a relaxing activity, thereby reducing stress levels.
Lowered stress levels may allow the gastrointestinal tract to function more effectively, thereby helping you to beat the bloat.
If you find that you bloat quite frequently, it may help to gradually top up on fibre, drink more water, and to avoid chewing gum.
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