Trapped Wind

During and after eating or drinking, we release most of our swallowed air through burping. Any leftover gas will travel down into the large intestine, where bacteria are busy breaking down undigested food — a process that also creates gas. Most of the time, the body's natural functions will take care of any excess gas through flatulence, but when excessive amounts of gas are produced, this is referred to as ‘trapped wind’. The four main symptoms of trapped wind are:

• A bloated stomach
• Excessive flatulence
• A sensation of feeling overly full
• Gurgling noises coming from your stomach

The causes of trapped wind can vary widely: common triggers include eating too fast, drinking fizzy drinks, and eating while stressed. The problem may also arise if you wear tight clothing or significantly change your diet (the latter can occur due to overseas travel). Certain foods or drinks may also trigger trapped wind. If you find that you’re experiencing trapped wind on a regular basis, consider the use of trapped wind tablets, and try to avoid foods that contain dairy or are high in fibre, fat, fructose, or carbohydrates.

Luckily, there are several ways in which you can guard against the uncomfortable sensations of trapped wind occurring in the first place. Try the following tips:

• Try to slow down your eating — chew each mouthful thoroughly and plan your food choices in advance to avoid any need to rush yourself through a meal.
• Eat regular meals — try to eat your meals at regular intervals throughout the day. This will allow your digestive system to adapt and form a healthy eating routine.
• Avoid carbonated drinks and chewing gum — these foods will only increase the amount of trapped wind inside your body.

Avoid gassy foods — these include (but aren’t limited to) eggs, baked beans, cabbages, sprouts, and cauliflowers.

Most episodes of trapped wind should pass over time. However, for more persistent episodes, medication can provide some much-needed relief.

Wind-eze Gel Capsules and Rennie’s Deflatine chewable wind relief tablets offer fast relief from trapped wind through their active ingredient of simeticone. A key component of many wind settlers and gas relief capsules, simeticone relieves trapped stomach gas by combining smaller air bubbles into larger ones, making it easier for gas to pass through your body. It also has antacid properties that help to neutralise excess stomach acid, easing the pain and discomfort caused by heartburn and indigestion.

If you’d prefer to treat your symptoms using natural ingredients, Colpermin Capsules offer a convenient way to relieve the discomfort of stomach cramps caused by trapped wind. They slowly release peppermint oil directly into the lower bowel, relaxing the muscles in the intestines and working to reduce excess gas in the stomach.

The following steps may also help to relieve your symptoms without the use of medication:

Movement — try moving around, as movement may help you expel any excess gas.

Massages — gently massaging your abdomen may provide some relief from the discomfort of trapped wind by promoting flatulence.

Yoga — certain yoga poses can stimulate your digestive tract and help to relax the body, aiding in gas expulsion. Try the Happy Baby Pose, Child’s Pose, or Wind-Relieving Pose.