A large percentage of the population suffers from stomach gas from time to time, yet it's rarely discussed, usually because we're too embarrassed to say we're feeling gassy. Nevertheless, stomach gas and bloating is becoming more prevalent due to modern food groups which encourage the build-up of gas in our system, causing a very uncomfortable feeling, and a lot of pain.
Causes of stomach gas build-up
Gas is mainly formed due to small fragmented stool as a result of eating a refined diet lacking in vegetable fiber. These fragmented stools remain in the colon for too long, allowing colonic bacteria to ferment them. On the other hand, a high fiber diet will produce bulky stool, causing very little gas to be formed.
Symptoms of stomach gas:
• Frequent passing of gas
• Feeling bloated
• Loss of appetite
• Abdomen feels 'tight'
• Belching
• Jabbing chest pain
• Getting rid of the excess stomach gas
Lie down and keep your head elevated as this position will cause the discomfort to pass in a few minutes. Remain in this position until the discomfort you're feeling is gone. You can lie down on your side, but still keep your head elevated.
If you are in distress, you can try to curl up so your head is touching the floor and your rear is in the air, this will encourage the passing of gas from your system.
Of course, when you are trying to push the gas out of your abdomen, make sure to do so on an empty stomach, or over a toilet.
Having excess gas in your stomach is usually a sign of poor digestion. Drinking plenty of fluid helps move the undigested remnants of the food from the colon. This is especially true if you've eaten a lot of fiber rich foods, which encourage undigested food particles to accumulate in the colon. So drink up.
Hot liquids help the most, try herbal tea, but even coffee will help get that gas moving.
