Natural Health: I find it difficult to control my flatulence since giving birth 

Plus: natural ways to deal with a nasal drip

Pic: iStock

I have found it difficult to control my flatulence since having children. Sometimes I fart when socialising which is deeply embarrassing. 

My labours were intense and my three children were delivered vaginally. I feel my pelvic floor muscles are not as strong as they used to be. 

I’m in my late 40s, so aware perimenopause may also be an issue. What would you suggest?

Flatulence problems can stem from food combinations, food intolerances, SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth), diverticulitis, IBS (irritable bowel syndrome), and coeliac disease. Endometriosis can also be a contributing factor.

The pelvic floor muscles help control flatulence as they form a supportive sling-like structure at the base of the pelvis. There is a lot of information regarding urinary continence and pelvic floor function, but less is known about their role in the controlled release of gas and bowel movements.

Pelvic floor physiotherapists can help identify whether muscle tone and function are compromised and suggest exercises or other support tools to reduce involuntary flatulence.

Probiotic supplements such as Dr. Ohira’s OMX, Seven Seas Multibionta, or Biocare’s range can also help manage excess flatulence. It is worth noting that sometimes bloating and wind can worsen before getting better as your intestinal microbiome adjusts.

Fennel tea, made by adding a teaspoon of fennel seeds to a cup of boiling water and steeping for three to five minutes, can help alleviate digestive discomfort, gas, and bloating. You could also purchase peppermint oil capsules, which can help in acute situations where you are trying to avoid an embarrassing moment in public.

Food combining can make a difference when wind and bloating are linked to food intake. Just by eating a handful of leafy greens before other food, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of flatulence. Greens stimulate the digestive process and help avoid indigestion, heartburn, and bloating. Structured food combining involves avoiding proteins and starches at the same meal — this one step can make a huge difference in how much gas your body produces.

Try to eat proteins and vegetables or carbohydrates and vegetables in the same meal, but not proteins and carbohydrates. Eat fruit on an empty stomach, and always eat melons separately.

I have an ongoing nasal drip at the back of my throat. I keep needing to cough to clear it. Is there a natural remedy I could take?

Nasal drip is an accumulation of mucous in the back of the nose and throat, often leading to mucous dripping down the back of the nasal cavity or the sensation of it dripping. 

It is typically caused by excessive mucous production or difficulty eliminating mucous from the nose and throat.

Quercetin, bromelain, and vitamin C are excellent supplements for treating inflammatory responses, particularly in the nasal passages. 

Quercetin naturally occurs in garlic and onions, which is why these are considered immune-supportive foods and good for coughs and colds in particular.

Viridian’s Quercetin & B5 Complex utilises all three of these key remedies, plus other valuable nutrients and botanicals. 

It’s worth taking a closer look at the ingredients the formulation contains:

• Vitamin B5 is crucial for the production of antibodies and supports the adrenals
• Nettle, vitamin C, and quercetin which have natural antihistamine properties
• Chamomile to soothe the mucous membranes
• Bromelain helps the body manage excess mucous production
• Vitamin C and pine bark are powerful antioxidants and immune-supportive ingredients. Quercetin & B5 Complex is available from health stores, where 60 vegecaps cost €32.60. Take two capsules daily with food.

If you have a question for Megan Sheppard please send it to [e-mail] 

NOTE: The information contained in this column is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult a doctor.