We get so many questions about bloating and how to get rid of it, we decided to dedicate an entire page to this common challenge. We hope you find it helpful!

Luckily, exercise and relief from bloating go hand in hand – you will find it easier and more pleasurable to exercise when you have eliminated any bloating issues, and regular exercise in and of itself helps to soothe and eliminate bloating and intestinal discomfort.

COMMON CAUSES OF BLOATING

Millions of people suffer from bloating, which is the fullness and swelling of the abdomen that often occurs after meals. Although there can be more serious causes* and the bloating can be extremely uncomfortable, most bloating is simply a symptom of excessive intestinal gas.

Bloating is very common, and usually fairly simple to eliminate. Along with the discomfort associated with bloating, you may also find it a pain simply because your clothes won’t fit properly, or will feel tight and uncomfortable. Common causes of bloating include:

• Food sensitivities, including normal digestive reactions to suchthings as brassica vegetables (cauliflower, broccoli etc.), legumes (kidney beans, etc.) and other foods
• Lactose intolerance or sensitivity (lactose is found in most dairy products)
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome – you’ll need to see a doctor to rule this out
• Over-eating or eating too fast
• Not eating meals on time (at regular intervals)
• Swallowing air (while eating or otherwise)

HOW TO GET RID OF BLOATING: QUICK CURES

Some effective and fairly simple ways to get rid of bloating discomfort include:

• 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 – walking is a great way to move air through your system and ease overall discomfort. Stretching (try leaning backwards over an exercise ball) and yoga (regular yoga is great for the digestive system, and there are several exercises desigend specifically to ease digestive discomfort) are particularly effective as well. Pilates can be helpful as well.
• Over-the-counter medications - medicines such as activated charcoal tablets can provide you with quick temporary relief from bloating. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for suggestions.
• Pure peppermint oil - just a drop on the tongue can help calm bloated bellies
• Prevention – taking a ‘Beano’ tablet prior to eating foods which are known to cause bloating can help prevent bloating altogether

HOW TO GET RID OF BLOATING: LONG-TERM METHODS

One effective solution for abdominal bloating is to change your diet and avoid foods which cause intestinal gas, such as beans, cabbages and other brassica vegetables (see above), wheat, deep fried foods, oily foods, and sodas.

TIP: Try changing or eliminating one food at a time, so you can determine what was causing the bloating.

Adding fiber to your diet can also help eliminate bloating. Fiber is good for your digestive system in general, and is an important part of a healthy, balanced diet. Be sure to add fiber gradually, however, and be prepared for some continued bloating as your body adjusts to your new diet.

You may also wish to explore the concept of combining foods to eliminate abdominal discomfort and bloating. Many nutritionists swear by this method, and tell us to eat our vegetables with either protein or starchy foods, but never both.

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 such as ColonProcleanse™ can reduce bloating significantly.

*Bloating can be caused by many things, including IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) and more 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.