In most cases, gas and bloating are temporary and harmless, but they can still cause discomfort and embarrassment, especially after meals.

 

Some people may also notice discomfort that worsens later in the day or after consuming specific foods like beans, carbonated drinks, dairy, or high-fiber items.

 

How to Control Bloating Symptoms

Relief from bloating often comes from a combination of over-the-counter (OTC) options and lifestyle adjustments.  OTC products containing simethicone help break up gas bubbles, making gas easier to pass and reducing pressure and fullness. For people who experience bloating after dairy, lactase enzyme supplements can prevent symptoms by improving lactose digestion.

Herbal options may also be helpful; peppermint oil capsules can relax intestinal muscles and reduce gas-related cramping and bloating. Probiotics can help restore a healthy balance of gut bacteria and may reduce bloating over time, especially when symptoms are related to diet changes or antibiotic use.

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Pharmacist-recommended products​​

The following are the recommended products for gas and bloating relief with convenient Amazon links, if your opt to purchase through, we may earn an affiliate commission at no additional cost to you. 

​​Gas-X® (Simethicone)

Phazyme® (Simethicone Extra Strength)

Beano® (Alpha-Galactosidase)

Lactaid® (Lactase Enzyme)

IBgard® (Peppermint Oil Capsules)

Iberogast® (Herbal Digestive Tonic)

Activated Charcoal Capsules

Probiotic Supplements

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Pro tips and selection criteria​

Choosing the right product is based on symptoms, age and other factors that you need to consider to achieve the best relief results.​​

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​Gas-X® (Simethicone)

A gentle, fast-acting anti-gas option that breaks up gas bubbles in the stomach and intestines, making them easier to pass. It typically works within minutes and is safe for frequent or daily use, as simethicone is not absorbed into the bloodstream.
Tip: ideal for general bloating, pressure, and gas-related discomfort.

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Phazyme® (Simethicone Extra Strength)

Contains a higher dose of simethicone, making it useful for more intense bloating, pressure, or gas discomfort. Simethicone works by breaking up gas bubbles in the stomach and intestines so they are easier to pass. It typically works within minutes and is safe for frequent or daily use, as simethicone is not absorbed into the bloodstream.
Tip: Best for moderate to severe bloating or pressure when standard-dose simethicone isn’t enough.

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Beano® (Alpha-Galactosidase)

A preventive option taken before meals that works by breaking down complex carbohydrates found in foods such as beans, lentils, whole grains, and certain vegetables. By digesting these sugars before they reach the intestines, it helps reduce gas formation before it starts.
Tip: best for people who can identify specific food triggers and want to prevent gas and bloating rather than treat symptoms after they occur.

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Lactaid® (Lactase Enzyme)

Designed for people with lactose intolerance, a condition in which the body does not produce enough lactase to digest dairy sugar. When taken before consuming dairy products, it helps prevent gas, bloating, cramping, and diarrheaassociated with milk, cheese, ice cream, and yogurt.
Tip: Most effective when taken right before the first bite or sip of dairy.

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IBgard® (Peppermint Oil Capsules)

A targeted-release peppermint oil formula designed to deliver the ingredient to the small intestine, where it helps relax digestive muscles. It has been clinically shown to reduce bloating, cramping, and abdominal discomfort, particularly in people with IBS (irritable bowel syndrome). It is non-sedating and suitable for daily use.
Tip: best for recurrent bloating with cramping, especially when symptoms are consistent with IBS rather than occasional gas.

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Iberogast® (Herbal Digestive Tonic)

A multi-herb liquid extract used for both upper and lower digestive symptoms, including bloating, early fullness, stomach cramping, and functional dyspepsia. It works through a combination of anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and motility-regulating effects, helping the digestive tract function more smoothly.
Tip: Useful when bloating is accompanied by fullness after small meals or stomach discomfort, rather than isolated gas alone.

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Activated Charcoal Capsules

Sometimes used for occasional bloating, particularly after heavy or fatty meals. Activated charcoal works by binding gas-producing substances in the digestive tract, which may help reduce bloating and discomfort.

Tip: take at least 2 hours apart from other medications or supplements, as activated charcoal can interfere with absorption. Best reserved for short-term, occasional use rather than daily management.

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Probiotic Supplements

Support and help restore a healthy gut microbiome, which can improve long-term digestive balance. Probiotics are best suited for chronic or recurring bloating, gas, or irregular bowel habits, rather than immediate relief. Benefits typically take 2–4 weeks to become noticeable.
Tip: Take probiotics daily and consistently for several weeks to assess benefit, and choose products with clearly labeled strains.

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Which One Should You Choose?

• Fast relief after meals: Choose Gas-X® or Phazyme® to break up gas bubbles and ease pressure within minutes.

• Prevention with specific foods: Use Beano® before eating gas-producing foods like beans or certain vegetables, or Lactaid® before consuming dairy if you are lactose intolerant.

• IBS-related bloating: Consider IBgard® or Iberogast®, which help relax digestive muscles and support gut motility.

• Long-term digestive balance: Add probiotic supplements for ongoing or frequent bloating and gas; benefits usually develop over 2–4 weeks with consistent use.

Seek medical care if bloating is persistent or severe, or if it is accompanied by unexplained weight loss, anemia, or blood in the stool, as these may signal a more serious digestive condition.

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