Don't you just hate it when you look at yourself in the mirror after indulging in a meal? The sight of your tummy bulging out can be quite disappointing and may make you feel guilty for all the food that you just had. Sounds relatable, right? This bulging of the stomach is a result of bloating that most of us face on a regular basis. It occurs when gas produced by the breakdown of foods accumulates in your stomach rather than passing out. This may cause pain, cramps, and even nausea. If you're someone who's in search of relief from bloating, here are five everyday herbs and spices that may help alleviate your pain.
Abdominal pain and bloating are often attributed to an excess buildup of intestinal gas. If you frequently experience a bloated stomach post-meal, it could be indicative of a digestive problem. The cause could be as trivial as overeating or eating too quickly, or it could be a result of a food intolerance or underlying medical condition that impedes the proper digestion and release of gas in the body.
What Are 5 Signs Of Bloating?
Excessive gas in the stomach can cause several uncomfortable symptoms, including bloating and stomach fullness. Other symptoms of excessive gas in the stomach may include nausea, a swollen stomach after a meal, and excessive flatulence. Nausea is the feeling of nausea or the urge to vomit, which can be caused by a variety of factors, including indigestion or the accumulation of gas in the stomach. A swollen stomach after a meal can be due to the stomach's inability to properly digest food, leading to the accumulation of gas and a feeling of bloating.
Excessive flatulence, or passing gas, can also be a symptom of having too much gas in the stomach. This can occur when the body is unable to digest certain foods, causing fermentation in the gut and the production of gas. Belching, burping, and passing wind can provide some relief from these symptoms, as they release the excess gas from the stomach.
Here're 5 Herbs And Spices That May Help Relieve Bloating:
1. Fennel Seeds
In India, it's common to consume fennel (saunf) seeds after a meal, but have you ever wondered why? Fennel seeds contain compounds called anethole, estragole, and fenchone, that help relax the muscles in the digestive tract and prevent bloating and gas. So, try having some fennel seeds after your meals and you'll notice the difference yourself.
Also Read: 6 Foods You Should Avoid That Cause Bloating (And Tips To Reduce Bloating)
2. Cumin Seeds
Jeera or cumin seeds are a spice that you'll easily find in every Indian kitchen. They are not only an essential ingredient in most recipes but can also be quite beneficial in relieving bloating. The oils present in cumin, such as cumin aldehyde and cymene, are packed with anti-bloating properties and can provide relief from bloating.
3. Ajwain
Ajwain, also known as carom seeds, is one of the most effective remedies to get rid of bloating. It contains an oil called thymol, which helps stimulate the secretion of digestive enzymes. Ajwain has volatile compounds such as limonene and carvone that are effective in treating bloating and gas.
4. Ginger
Ginger is another great spice that can work wonders in relieving bloating and gas. It contains compounds called gingerols, which can increase the rate at which food exits the stomach. Ginger is also loaded with anti-inflammatory properties and may help provide relief from indigestion and bloating.
Also Read: Feel Bloated After Meals? 5 Nutritionist-Approved Drinks That May Help
5. Mint
Mint is one of the oldest remedies to soothe an upset stomach. It has gastroprotective properties that help stimulate digestive enzymes and facilitate better absorption of nutrients from food. According to the book 'Healing Foods' by DK Publishing, menthol, which is the active oil in the mint, has antiseptic and antibacterial properties that help relieve indigestion and also soothe an upset stomach.
Try adding these herbs and spices to your diet and let us know how they help relieve your bloating.