Belly Fat
It is possible to lose belly fat without having to work out—and even while you sleep. Pictured: A man walks along the Embarcadero April 6, 2005 in San Francisco Getty Images/Justin Sullivan

Bloating can not only make you look fatter but can also make you feel uncomfortable. Most people with belly bloats find it bothering and also think that the protruding belly even makes them look pregnant! You might also be frustrated about how your belly fat sticks around even after you lose weight.

But don’t worry just yet. Getting rid of bloating is possible. Here are some remedies that really work quickly to help you get rid of that bloating:

  • Find out if you’re sensitive to any particular food. Certain food sensitivities can drive digestive issues like bloating and therefore keep a note of your food habits to find out what the culprit is. Eliminate those foods from your diet and see if your bloating reduces.
  • Try going for a walk. Physical activity can induce bowel movements regularly and help release excess gas and stool from your body. So keep moving to get quick relief from gas pressure.
  • Take peppermint capsules. They can be used to treat indigestion and gas. Peppermint works by relaxing your intestinal muscles and lets the gas move along better. But avoid it if you are suffering from heartburns.
  • Massage your belly. It can help get the bowels to move and release gas. Place your hands above your right hip bone and rub in a circular motion using light pressure up towards the right side of your ribcage. Do the same for the left side of your stomach and repeat as needed. Do not practice it if you experience any pain or discomfort.
  • Up your fiber intake. Consuming enormous amounts of fiber can help prevent constipation and bloating. But do so gradually and do not increase your fiber intake too quickly.
  • Ditch that gum. Your chewing gum contains substances that can cause bloating. Also, you tend to swallow air while chewing, which can lead to gas and bloating.
  • Soak your legumes and pulses before cooking. This can make them easier to digest and it also helps deactivate certain compounds that prevent the absorption of nutrients.
  • Take Probiotics foods or supplements. They can regulate your colon microbiota which is causing gas and bloating.
  • Watch your salt intake. Excess amounts of sodium can cause water retention in your body that can lead to a swollen and bloated belly.

If your bloating doesn’t subside with time and is persistent, it could indicate an underlying medical condition. It is recommended that you discuss your bloating issues with your doctor and get evaluated.