I think there are very few of us who haven’t experienced bloating and gut discomfort at times. Bloating to excess can be extremely uncomfortable and painful. If it happens consistently, I would recommend consulting a doctor as it can be a sign of gut issues.
SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth) can cause severe bloating, as can dysbiosis (an imbalance of the gut microbiome).
It can also be a reaction to certain foods that we are intolerant to. Or it could just be an occasional discomfort. Whatever the case, there are natural remedies that can help.
Below, Shabir Daya, pharmacist at Victoria Health, lists some of the best remedies. I’ve tried all of these and believe them to be very helpful. I believe that most of us of a certain age, should be on digestive enzymes to help the process along, as well as a probiotic of some kind.
He mentions charcoal, which I’ve used for some gut issues and I just want to give some advice about it. It can stop absorption from food and supplements and should be taken on it’s own, ideally two hours before and after food. But it’s worth it as it’s very effective.
Digestive discomfort can be disruptive – whether it’s bloating, trapped wind, cramping, or the lingering heaviness after a meal. The good news is that natural solutions exist, each supporting in targeting a different aspect of digestive health. Understanding the approach that suits you best is key to lasting comfort.
Absorbing Excess Gas
Sometimes the simplest solution is the most effective.
Lifeplan WindAway® Activated Charcoal, made from steam-activated coconut shells, gently binds and absorbs excess gas in the digestive tract. This helps reduce bloating and post-meal flatulence while remaining pure, vegan, and free from additives – an elegant way to restore lightness after meals.
Soothing Cramping and Intestinal Tension
For those who experience tightness or cramping, peppermint oil has a long tradition of gentle, effective support.
Obbekjaers Peppermint Oil Extra Strength contains 200 mg of pure peppermint oil per capsule, helping to relax intestinal muscles and ease bloating or spasms. Clinical studies have demonstrated significant symptom relief, making peppermint oil a trusted natural ally.
Restoring Microbial Balance
Healthy digestion depends on the balance of your gut microbiome.
Mega Probio provides eight strains of beneficial bacteria, delivering 10 billion CFU per serving to support gut flora, immune function, and optimal digestion. Ongoing use is suggested, but it is particularly valuable after periods of stress or antibiotic use, helping to maintain a harmonious intestinal environment.
Supporting the Digestive Process with Enzymes
For many, discomfort arises not from gas or tension but from the body struggling to break down food efficiently.
Digestive Enzyme Complex contains 12 high-potency enzymes, including three types of proteases, to aid the digestion of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, and fibre. By helping food pass smoothly through the digestive system, it aims to support with alleviating bloating, stomach pain, and wind, promoting overall gastrointestinal wellbeing.
Choosing the Right Approach For You
- Excess gas after meals – Activated charcoal absorbs trapped wind naturally.
- Cramping or bloating – Peppermint oil helps relax intestinal muscles and relieve tension.
- Ongoing gut imbalance – Beneficial bacteria in Mega Probio help restore microbial harmony.
- Difficulty digesting food – Digestive enzymes support the breakdown of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates for help with smoother digestion
By understanding the cause of your digestive discomfort, you can select a natural, targeted solution — or combine approaches for comprehensive support.
