Stomach bloating can cause a person’s tummy to feel stretched, puffy and uncomfortable. The problem is usually caused by excess gas production as the gut struggles to break down certain foods. Foods such as beans, onions, broccoli and cauliflower can all be difficult to digest and cause bloating. But are there other foods which can help reduce it?
Drinking fennel tea has a host of benefits when it comes to digestion
Through the ages there have been many health claims that fennel, and drinking fennel tea, has a host of benefits when it comes to digestion.
Humans have traditionally used fennel to relieve flatulence and speed digestion.
According to herbalists at The Northwest School For Botanical Studies, fennel seed is an effective aid to digestion.
It can help the smooth muscles of the gastrointestinal system relax and reduce gas, bloating and stomach cramps.
While most the health claims made for fennel and fennel tea are based on traditional medicine, some scientific studies have demonstrated its benefits.
One titled ‘Antibacterial and phytochemical screening of Anethum graveolens, Foeniculum vulgare and Trachyspermum ammi’ found fennel’s essential oils can work effectively against bacteria that causes indigestion and diarrhoea.
Extract of fennel seeds is not the same thing as fennel tea.
Fennel tea is less processed and more likely to be pure.
Another herbal tea which could help beat a bulging belly is dandelion tea.
Dandelion tea is a herbal tea often used as a coffee substitute with the roots being roasted to a dark brown colour.
According to Dr Mehmet Oz, former health expert on The Oprah Winfrey Show, dandelion tea is an effective cure for stomach bloating.
On his website he explains: “It stimulates bile to help break down fatty meals that make you bloated. Try drinking one cup a day.”
As well as aiding digestion, dandelion tea has been found to help reduce water weight. It acts as a diuretic and increases urine output.
One study showed an increased urine output after two one cup servings of dandelion tea made from the leaves of the plant.
But if tea doesn’t take your fancy, another way the NHS recommends for reducing bloating is try not to swallow too much air.
It says: “Don’t talk and eat at the same time, sit down to eat (sitting upright and not slumped over), reduce the amount of fizzy drinks you consume, stop chewing gym and chew with your mouth closed so that you’re not taking in excess air.”
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