My baby is 9 months old, and since delivery, I have been having persistent gas problems despite having regular bowel movements. What can I do to manage this?
It is common to experience gas and bloating after delivery, even if your bowel movements are regular. This can be due to hormonal changes, changes in diet, reduced physical activity, or a sensitive gut. To manage this, try eating smaller, regular meals and avoiding gas-producing foods like fried items, excess tea/coffee, carbonated drinks, and very spicy or processed foods. Include fibre-rich foods (fruits, vegetables, whole grains) but increase them gradually, and drink plenty of water. Gentle daily activities like walking and simple postnatal exercises or yoga can improve digestion. Eating slowly and avoiding swallowing air (like talking while eating) also helps. You may benefit from probiotics (like curd or supplements) to improve gut health. If needed, mild anti-gas medicines can be taken occasionally after consulting a doctor, especially if you are breastfeeding. However, if symptoms are severe, persistent, or associated with pain, vomiting, or weight loss, it is best to consult a doctor to rule out other causes.