Question: 

Will putting castor oil in my belly button reduce bloating?

Answered by Nebraska Medicine nutrition therapist Morgan Brummels, MMN, RDN, LMNT, LD:

The trend of putting castor oil in your belly button — sometimes called “navel pulling” — has gotten attention for claims that it helps with bloating, digestion and weight loss. While castor oil does have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, there’s no scientific evidence that applying it to your belly button reduces bloating.

If you’re looking for natural ways to ease bloating, try:

1. Drinking more water.
2. Adding fiber to your diet gradually.
3. Eating smaller, more frequent meals.
4. Cutting back on processed foods.
5. Staying active, like taking walks after meals.

Occasional bloating is normal, but if it’s happening often or is painful, it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor. It could be a sign of irritable bowel syndrome or a food sensitivity.