Gas and bloating are rarely serious, but they can be painful and embarrassing. Symptoms include belching, flatulence, pain or cramps in the stomach area and a distended stomach. Symptoms can be intense, but they are usually brief. Gas and bloating symptoms are usually caused by swallowing air or a buildup of gases produced during the normal digestion of food.
Swallowing Air
People normally swallow some air while eating and drinking, and some of that air enters the digestive tract and contributes to the buildup of gas, according to MayoClinic.com. But some people take in too much air and that can cause excessive belching. Eating too fast, chewing gum, drinking through a straw and poorly fitting dentures can cause a person to swallow too much air.
Digestion
Most gas is produced when bacteria in the colon break down carbohydrates that haven't been digested. Foods that are particularly prone to causing gas are fruits, vegetables, beans, fiber and carbonated beverages. For some people who have food intolerances, specific food groups that they have trouble digesting properly, such as dairy products or gluten, can cause gas problems. Sugar-free food, gums and candies can often cause gas because many people can't tolerate the artificial sweeteners sorbitol and mannitol used in these products.
Other Causes
A number of health conditions can cause gas, including constipation, diverticulitis, ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, according to MayoClinic.com. Antibiotics can cause gas because they destroy the normal healthy bacteria in the gut that are vital to proper digestion. Laxatives can also cause gas.
