How to end that bloating feeling around your tummy quickly

If your abdomen sometimes feels swollen and uncomfortable, you’re not alone. Bloating affects 20 – 30% of people, in both men and women.  Many factors may trigger bloating, including food intolerances, a buildup of gas in your gut, imbalanced intestinal bacteria, ulcers, constipation, parasitic infections and even drinking the wrong type of beverage.  Traditionally, people have used natural remedies, including herbal teas, to relieve bloating.  Preliminary studies suggest that several herbal teas may help soothe this uncomfortable condition.

Before we look at what types of tea you can drink to reduce or stop bloating, let’s talk about some of the drinks you should perhaps leave aside a bit more often.

We’re rather fond of a good cuppa but the Q team does appreciate a great coffee too.  The scents and the aromas that coffee brings are irresistible but overindulging in the black stuff can be a major cause of bloating.  The effect coffee has on the gut and gastric acid are well documented.  

Milk and dairy products in general may also have an adverse affect on your digestive system, mainly caused by a protein called “casein” or an intolerance to lactose.  Herbal teas lend themselves really well to enjoying a good brew without the need to add any milk.  If you appreciate a milky tea, it may be worth considering adding in a drop of the multitude of dairy alternatives such as oat milk. 

Sugary drinks are commonly known culprits that should only occasionally be enjoyed, carbonated sweet drinks and cloying cocktails getting the worst of the bad press.  But perhaps you are less aware that drinks that are perceived healthy such as apple juice are also not great for good gut health, simply because they contain sorbitol, a naturally occurring sweetener.  We will not even go into the bad effects that artificial sweeteners have on health when consuming “light” or “diet” soft drinks.

Two of our best herbal blends that can reduce bloating and help you to start feeling lighter again

1. British Mint and Caramel - In traditional medicine, peppermint (Mentha Piperita) is widely recognised for helping soothe digestive issues.  It has a cool, refreshing flavour.  Research suggests that plant compounds called flavonoids, are found in peppermint and may inhibit the activity of mast cells. These are immune system cells that are abundant in your gut and sometimes contribute to bloating.  Peppermint also relaxes the gut which may relieve intestinal spasms-as well as the bloating and pain that can accompany them.  British Mint and Caramel is a refreshing blend of peppermint with a hint of natural caramel flavour (but is calorie-free) for a light indulgent sweetness.
2. Cleanse - Ginger tea is made from the thick roots of the “Zingiber Officinale” plant and has been used for stomach-related ailments since ancient times.  Research has shown that ginger may speed up stomach emptying, relief digestive upset and reduce intestinal cramping, bloating, and gas. Notably, these studies were done with liquid extracts or capsules rather than tea.  Cleanse is a naturally spicy sweet blend of ginger, cinnamon, oats, dates, and cardamom.  Caffeine free, it provides a welcome end to a heavy meal.