There are many reasons you may be dealing with gas and belly bloat right now. Maybe it's your period [1] that's causing your digestion to get out of whack. Maybe your diet is lacking [2] in fiber. Or maybe you're not practicing stress-relieving techniques [3] on the regular, which have a direct link to digestive woes. Luckily, you don't always have to reach for a med to chase away gas. Try these 10 natural options for chasing the wind away when you need it most.
Get some om in: Poses like Extended Wide Squat, Wide-Legged Forward Bend D, and Twisting Lizard can massage your GI tract to help you break wind (seriously). Try the full 12-pose sequence [4] for relief.
Munch on celery: The crisp, crunchy veggie [5] contains fiber, which can help keep things moving along in your GI system and prevent constipation to keep bloating at bay.
Stop the sparkling H20: Even if you're sipping a calorie-free sparkler, the carbonation can trap gas in your belly, causing bloating and gas. Trading sparkling for still may be exactly what you need to deflate.
Toss pineapple in a smoothie: Pineapple's enzyme called [7] bromelain expertly breaks down proteins, giving your GI system less work to do. Whip up this Pina Colada Green Smoothie [8].
Sip tea: Aim for teas containing cinnamon or ginger; the spices encourage healthy digestion [9].
Chew fennel: Fennel seeds are often chewed at the end of meals in India to aid digestion. (You'll often find a bowl of these near the door at an Indian restaurant.) You can also try fresh fennel [10].
Cut down on sugar: Too much of the sweet stuff [11] can encourage the wrong type of bacteria growth in your GI tract, increasing gas production. Try cutting it out — or cutting back — and see if that eases your symptoms.
Walk it out: When you have gas, the last thing you might want to do is exercise, but you should get moving. Activity helps your digestive system [12] run as it should.
Let it go: Even though gas can be embarrassing, it's best to make a visit to the bathroom [13]. Holding it in can worsen a stomachache.
Stretch: Lie on your back, bend your knees, and grab onto the outside of your feet. Pull your feet toward you. Called a Happy Baby pose [14], it encourages your GI system to take a break.