Belching and passing gas are the body's natural method of removing excess gas from the body. Belching occurs when a person releases excess gas from the stomach, and flatulence occurs when excess gas is passed from the intestines. According to the American College of Gastroenterology, a person passes gas about 10 times per day. A variety of conditions cause both excess belching and gas. The conditions are normal occurrences, and medical attention is often not required unless they become bothersome and prevent everyday activities.
Swallowing Excess Air
Also known as aerophagia, swallowing excess air causes excess belching and gas. When eating, a person who quickly consumes food, talks while eating or drinks from a straw will swallow excess air. Chewing gum or sucking on candy will also cause the condition. Smokers often inhale excess air. Loose-fitting dentures will also cause someone to swallow too much air. Carbonated beverages such as soda and beer will add extra air in the stomach. People may also swallow additional air when they are nervous or feel stressed, the American College of Gastroenterology reports.
Gassy Food Types
Certain foods cause increased gas to develop. Each person reacts to foods differently. Food may cause belching and gas in one person but not another, the Cleveland Clinic advises. Four types of sugars that cause gas are raffinose, fructose, lactose and sorbitol, the clinic adds. Raffinose is commonly found in beans and in vegetables such as cabbage, Brussels sprouts and asparagus. Fructose is a natural sweetener found in onions, wheat and pears. Lactose is found in most dairy products. A person who is lactose intolerant will not be able to tolerate lactose and suffer from increased gas and belching. Most starches contain gas-producing sugars, including pastas and potatoes.
Medical Conditions and Medications
Celiac disease and pancreatic insufficiency prevent the absorption of certain foods in the digestive tract, the American College of Gastroenterology reports. The conditions are rare and besides excess gas, symptoms include excess diarrhea, malnutrition and weight loss. Medications such as acarbose and lactulose may also cause excess gas in some patients. Patients should seek medical attention if belching and gas accompany severe abdominal pain, constipation and chronic heartburn.
