Flatulence, Bloating, and Gas

Everyone has gas. Photo by rawpixel.com from Pexels

Everyone has gas. Burping or passing gas through the rectum is normal but because it is embarrassing to burp or pass gas, many people believe they pass gas "too often" or have "too much" gas.

Everyone has gas. It's normal.

However, it is rare for a person to have too much gas.

Most of the time gas is odorless. The odor comes from sulfur made by bacteria in the large intestine. Sometimes gas causes bloating and pain. Not everyone has these symptoms.

A variety of gastrointestinal complaints or symptoms are caused by gas. For example, belching, bloating, abdominal pain, and flatulence can be due to sensation from gas, not necessarily "excess gas."

Burping or passing gas through the rectum is normal.

Gas

Gas is formed in the intestines by the action of bacteria as food is being digested. Gas is also called flatus or flatulence and is passed through the intestine and out the body through the rectum.

Excessive intestinal gas also occurs due to excessive air swallowing or increased intraluminal production from malabsorbed nutrients (such as lactose, fructose, or sucrose, for example). This is where there is a benefit in trying the low-FODMAP diet. You can read my other blogs for more about a low-FODMAP diet.

Key Points on Gas

• Everyone has gas.

• Changing what you eat and drink can help prevent or relieve gas.

• Passing gas frequently is normal.

• Cut down on the foods that cause gas.

Drink plenty of water.

Tips on Gas

• Drink plenty of water. Try not to drink soda and beer.

• Eat slower and chew more to cut down on the amount of air you swallow when you eat.

• Avoid chewing gum.

• Don’t smoke.

• Make sure your dentures fit properly.

• Keep a diet diary.

Some Common Gas-Producing Foods

• Beans

• Broccoli, cabbage, brussels sprouts, onions, artichokes, asparagus

• Pears, apples, peaches

• Whole grains, whole wheat, bran

• Soft drinks, fruit drinks

• Milk, milk products, cheese, ice cream

• Packaged foods that have lactose in them (bread, cereal, salad dressing)

• Dietetic foods, sugar-free candies, and gums