Here are some efficient tips to combat air in the intestine

Do you feel bloated? Do you feel full after eating or do you have stabbing pain in your stomach? What is happening to you is very common and is called meteorism or flatulence, that is, an excess of gas in the intestine. Eating quickly, having certain foods or keeping unsuitable eating habits can cause swelling in the stomach (abdominal swelling) and sudden movements in the intestine (spasms).

The uncomfortable gas accumulated in the intestine can come from the air that enters when we eat (aerophagia), or through fermentation by bacteria in the gut flora.

Tips to help eliminate it

You should follow a proper diet and take note of some recommendations that will help you to improve the problem:

1. Cook your pulses differently: when they start to boil, remove them from the heat or add water to the boiling water. You will reduce the oligosaccharides, which trigger the gas. Another option is to purée the pulses, remove the skin or cook them with cumin, aniseed, rosemary or fennel which helps in their digestion.

2. Eat slowly, in a relaxed fashion, and chew each bite between 20 and 25 times, savouring it thoroughly. Try not to get angry or stressed when eating and take the time to speak with your family or colleagues.

3. Drink very little liquid at meals. Avoid carbonated and sugary drinks and try not to use straws, wine pitchers or cans which make you swallow more air.

4. Have dinner or supper early or try not to go to bed until after 2 hours have gone by. The intestine slows down at night, the food ferments longer and generates a greater quantity of air.

5. Have infusions: linden tea, green anise tea, fennel, lemon verbena or camomile help reduce intestinal gas. That’s why it is so recommendable to have infusions after meals and/or at night.

If the problem persists over time, you are advised to visit the doctor as it could mean that you have an intolerance to certain foodstuffs with gluten, lactose or are suffering from gastrointestinal malabsorption.

With these recommendations, you will be able to say goodbye to painful and embarrassing gas, and improve your digestion to reach that feeling of well-being.

This post is also available in: Italian