Whether it’s physical discomfort, like sharp, jabbing pains and a swelling or tightness in the stomach, or the embarrassment of belching or flatulating uncontrollably, we’ve all experienced that distressing moment (or series of moments) when your body is overrun with gas. The good news is that we’re all in this together. I have yet to meet someone who has not burped, farted or clutched their bloated stomach and cursed their respective gastrointestinal gods for undue discomfort. The great news is that there are foods that can actually help your body combat gas, and we’ve rounded them up just for you.
Pineapple and Papaya For Gas Relief –
Their ability to break down proteins in meat not only make pineapple and papaya natural meat tenderizers but these enzyme-rich foods can also ease digestion by helping to break down proteins during digestion, according to Branin. The longer it takes to break down these proteins, the more likely it is that you will experience the feeling of fullness and bloating, said Branin. What’s more, if the undigested proteins enter the small intestine, they’ll begin to putrefy and cause gas.
Kimchi –
Considered a staple in any Korean kitchen, kimchi is a spicy mix of fermented vegetables that includes cabbage as its main ingredient. Cabbage has gotten a bad rap over the years as one of the top culprits for gas and bloating, but this fiber-rich food actually aids in digestion by populating the GI tract with beneficial bacteria. The more good bacteria you have in your gut, the better equipped your body will be at breaking down foods properly so gas doesn’t build up.
Kefir –
Although it has only recently become popular in America, fermented cow, goat or sheep milk—also known as kefir—has been keeping bellies happy and bloat-free in Eastern Europe for centuries. Like its cousin yogurt, kefir is chock full of good bacteria—it actually has up to three times more beneficial bacteria than yogurt—which helps the body break down food and prevent build-up of gas. Even better, this probiotic powerhouse doesn’t require a spoon! As long as you don’t mind its carbonation and slightly sour taste, you can drink it from a glass, with a straw or even straight from the container.