Remedies for flatulence

However, it is normal and healthy for gas to be present in our digestive system. According to health experts, there are two main causes of intestinal gas: swallowed air and gas that is produced as a by-product of the digestion of certain foods. Most swallowed air is released through burping. The rest is either absorbed […]

However, it is normal and healthy for gas to be present in our digestive system. According to health experts, there are two main causes of intestinal gas: swallowed air and gas that is produced as a by-product of the digestion of certain foods. Most swallowed air is released through burping. The rest is either absorbed in the small intestines or travel through the intestines to be released through the rectum. Gas is also produced by intestinal bacteria as a breakdown product of food materials. Some health experts also say flatulence can also be caused by overeating, lactose intolerance and other food intolerance and constipation amongst others. Flatulence may also be related to eating fatty foods. Fat delays stomach emptying and can increase the sensation of fullness, stress or anxiety.

Mrs Sarah Abagai, Head, Dietetics Departments, National Hospital, Abuja, says some fruits and vegetables can help reduce Flatulence. “If you take carrot juice, it can stabilize the system as far as the issue of flatulence and gas are concerned. For instance, if you taken orange drink, it will help you. What can help you in terms of bloating may not be foods but instead, water. Once you have some form of fermentation and belching, the remedy is water. Get a glass full of water and drink it. Give yourself time and drink another one. It is not so much of what you eat but what you drink,” Abagai explains.

To reduce flatulence, it may help to avoid or reduce the amount of gas-producing foods you eat. Abagai says eating vegetables such as cabbage can naturally induce gas, Many carbohydrate cause gas and the following items are common culprits: beans, cabbage, carbonated drink, chewing gum,  apples, pears, and lettuce amongst others.

It is good to note that many foods that cause passing of gas are often foods that carry many nutritional benefits. Therefore, it is important to accurately identify the foods that your system has the most difficulty with rather than cut out an entire group of foods, such as vegetables, because it can make you pass gas. You can keep a careful record of what you eat and whether or not you experience gas afterwards. You may find that your body can handle smaller amounts of food that can cause gas without a problem.

However, to prevent excessive gas, it may help to reduce the intake of foods that affect you most. Common offenders include beans, peas, cabbage, onions, bananas, raisins, whole-wheat bread and carbonated drinks. If dairy products are a problem, try low-lactose or lactose-free varieties.

Also, experts say eat few fatty foods. Fat slows digestion, giving food more time to ferment. Again, cut back on high-fibre foods. Fibre aids digestion, but many high-fibre foods are also great gas producers. After a break, slowly add fibre back to your diet.

Again, the way you eat too matters. Eating when you are stressed or on the run can interfere with digestion. Eat slowly and also eat your meals in relaxed occasions.

If you have the unfortunate experience of passing unwanted gas while in the presence of others, remember that although this is embarrassing, it is a necessary evil. Everyone passes gas. It is helpful to keep in mind that no one will judge you based on what your body does. Just say “excuse me” and get on with your day. Or better still, excuse yourself and go to a safe zone where there are no people. By handling the situation with grace and dignity, you also serve as a role model for those around you should the situation happen to them someday because it will.