Trapped Gas Relief: Your Guide to Home Remedies & Prevention

Trapped gas is a common yet pressing issue that can significantly impact the quality of life. It refers to the presence of excessive gas in the digestive tract, that may result in bloating and the sensation of pressure in the abdomen.

While the issue is generally not dangerous, the discomfort caused by trapped gas can be significant. Fortunately, the symptoms can be managed using several home-based methods, unless caused due to an underlying medical condition.

What Is Trapped Gas?

"Gas is produced in the digestive tract as a part of the normal digestive process, which includes bacterial fermentation of fibre, sugar and starch to produce gases, such as carbon dioxide, methane and hydrogen. Additionally, air is swallowed during the eating or drinking process," said Dr Medha Kapoor, PhD, Chief nutrition and wellness consultant, Varsity Skin and Wellness Clinic, New Delhi.

In either case, the gases are normally passed out of the body upon burping and farting. However, excessive build-up of gas which may happen in case of increased consumption of fibre-rich foods, carbonated drinks, and certain vegetables like cabbage and broccoli or consumption of chewing gum may be difficult to get rid of and may cause discomfort.

Gas Relief Home Remedies

Here are some home remedies which may provide relief from discomfort due to trapped gas.

1. Warm Water

"Warm water can relax the digestive muscles and release trapped gas, providing quick relief from discomfort. It can also stimulate digestion, helping to move gas through the digestive system and reduce bloating," said Muskan, Nutritionist, Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, New Delhi, East of Kailash, New Delhi.

2. Water with Ajwain (Carom Seeds)

Carom seeds, when consumed with warm water, ease the discomfort in the digestive system. Infused carom seed water may also be sipped in moderation for comfort during mild abdominal pains.

Also Read: 5 Secret Home Remedies To Relieve Farting, Shares A Gastroenterologist

3. Infusion of Ginger

Ginger may relieve gas and bloating by reducing fermentation in the stomach, according to a 2023 study. A ginger concoction made by boiling some slices of ginger in hot water provides relief.

4. Jeera (Cumin) Water with Warm Temperature

Cumin-based drinks are known to aid digestion. In many Indian households, jaljeera, a drink made of jeera, rock salt, and pepper is consumed post-meals to ensure optimum digestion.

5. Gentle Movements or Walking

Post meal, a 10-15 minute stroll is believed to be helpful for digestion. Exercise encourages gas to move through the intestines and relieves bloating.

Also Read: "Why Does My Stomach Feel Tight": Bloating Or Something More Serious?

6. Putting on a Warm Compress

Putting a warm compress on the stomach helps relax the area and discomfort associated with gas buildup.

7. Fennel Seeds

"Chew one teaspoon of fennel seeds after meals to help relieve trapped gas and bloating, or steep them in hot water to make a soothing tea that can ease digestion and provide comfort," added Muskan.

8. Asafoetida (Hing)

Mix a pinch of asafoetida (hing) in warm water to help relieve gas and bloating. Its natural anti-flatulent properties can provide quick relief from discomfort.

Also Read: Asafoetida: Here Are Its 9 Health Benefits 

9. Peppermint Tea

Adding peppermint tea to your diet can remove trapped gas by relaxing the muscles in the digestive tract, allowing it to pass more easily. Its soothing properties can provide quick comfort and reduce bloating. According to a 2020 study, peppermint supplements can treat gastrointestinal symptoms like bloating and gas.

10. Knees-to-Chest Pose (Pawanmuktasana)

The pose can help relieve trapped gas by gently compressing the abdomen, allowing gas to pass through the digestive system. Lie on your back, pull your knees to your chest, and rock gently. This yoga pose helps release trapped gas.

11. Abdominal Massage

Massaging your abdomen in a clockwise direction can help relieve trapped gas by gently guiding it through the colon, providing relief from discomfort and bloating.

Also Read: 7 Everyday Foods That Quietly Trigger Bloating & Fatigue

How To Prevent Trapped Gas?

The good old saying, prevention is better than cure, applies here too! Here are some of the preventive ways to reduce the risk of build-up of gases:

• Eat mindfully and slowly, taking time to chew the food, which in turn reduces the gas intake. Chew thoroughly and avoid talking while chewing.
• According to StatPearls, chewing gum leads to swallowing air, which can cause trapped and painful gas.
• Following strict meal timings to ensure effective digestion and assimilation of food.
• Avoid carbonated beverages, such as soda and fizzy drinks as they introduce air into the digestive system, increasing bloating.
• Avoid meals disproportionally high in sugar, starches and fibre. Cut down on beans, lentils, cabbage, onions, and carbonated drinks, if you are prone to gas.
• Light walking after meals improves digestion and helps prevent gas buildup.
• Regular intake of probiotics, such as yoghurt or supplements improves gut health and reduces gas formation.

Why One Should Contact A Medical Expert

Dr Kapoor concluded, "Some symptoms of gas build-up, including bloating after meals, excess air, hard stomach, or stomach ache could be symptoms of deeper digestive disorders that may require medical attention. In case of recurring or severe symptoms, please consult a medical expert."

[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your professional if you are dealing with any health issue to avoid complications.]