Trapped Wind

What is trapped wind?

Trapped wind is usually caused by a build-up of gas in the gut.

It happens to most of us from time to time.

Gas is a natural by-product of digestion but can be increased by eating certain foods, such as those high in fibre, as well as fizzy drinks, air swallowed when eating and constipation.

Eating large meals can also produce gas as can processed foods that contain higher levels of sugar, fat or spice.

Trapped wind tends to pass on its own. However, there are things you can do to relieve these related indigestion symptoms which can be uncomfortable and sometimes painful.

Common symptoms of trapped wind

Flatulence

Rumbling, grumbling gut

Bloating

Burping

Stomach pain or discomfort

Advice for treating trapped wind

Trapped wind can be uncomfortable and sometimes embarrassing but don’t worry, there are things you can do to reduce the bloat or lessen the chance of it happening.

Check out our tips:

Eat the right food

Try to reduce the amount of known gas-causing foods such as beans and pulses, cauliflower, cabbage and brussel sprouts. If you’re not sure which foods are causing your gas, try keeping a food diary.

If trapped wind is caused by constipation a diet high in fibre can help so instead of dried pulses try smaller portions of tinned pulses instead.

You could also try including known wind reducing foods in your diet such as oats.

Try to cut down on fizzy drinks.

Eat the right way

How you eat and your posture when eating can play a part too.

Take your time to eat and chew your food properly and close your mouth when chewing.

Try to sit up straight when eating rather than slouching.

Another handy tip is to avoid using straws when drinking as this can mean you end up swallowing more air.

You should also drink plenty of water throughout the day as this can aid digestion.

Eat at the right time

Try to not skip regular mealtimes.

Eating smaller portions or having four or five smaller meals a day instead of three large ones can generally help your digestion.

Avoid eating a big meal at least two to three hours before bedtime or lying down.

Find your nearest stockist of Wind-eze

Fast relief from bloating and trapped wind discomfort.

Find a stockist

Wind-eze offers quick relief from bloating and trapped wind discomfort. The active ingredient is simeticone, an anti-flatulence medicine. Always read the label.