Home Remedies for Smelly Flatulence

Home Remedies for Smelly Flatulence
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Flatulence is intestinal gas that passes through the anus. Intestinal gas can have an unpleasant odor or cause stomach pain, according to MayoClinic.com. Passing gas between 10 to 20 times per day is considered normal. If you experience frequent flatulence, talk to your doctor. You can make a few lifestyle and diet changes and try a few home remedies to help improve your odorous flatulence.

Herbal Teas

Try drinking herbal tea after you eat a meal to prevent intestinal gas from forming. Breastcancer.org recommends chamomile or peppermint tea, both of which can help your body properly digest your food, preventing flatulence. Peppermint tea works to relax your intestinal tract, preventing muscle spasms and pain. Drinking green tea may also help relieve gas, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Avoid peppermint tea if you have gallstones or heartburn, as it can aggravate these conditions.

Activated Charcoal

Activated charcoal tablets designed to treat intestinal gas are available, according to MayoClinic.com. Most health food stores and natural drugstores sell activated charcoal. The charcoal is designed to help absorb intestinal gas, preventing flatulence. Manufacturers recommend taking activated charcoal before and after a meal for best results. Talk to your doctor before taking charcoal to reduce flatulence.

Exercise

Regular exercise can help relieve chronic intestinal gas, according to MayoClinic.com. Choose gentle exercises, such as walking or yoga, to help work painful, unpleasant gas out of your digestive system and promote proper, healthy digestion.

Limit Gas-Causing Foods and Beverages

High-fiber foods such as beans and whole grains can cause flatulence. Breastcancer.org recommends eating these foods in moderation to prevent gas. Alcohol and carbonated beverages can also be contributers to frequent gas. Try abstaining from alcohol and bubbly drinks to improve your flatulence.

Lifestyle Changes

Change the way you eat to help your body digest food properly, preventing stinky gas from forming. Chew with your mouth closed and don't talk while eating to avoid taking in air while you eat. Don't use a straw when drinking and avoid chewing gum to help keep gas out of your intestines. Relax while you are eating. Chew your food slowly and avoid gulping down your meals in large bites. Eat smaller meals throughout the day when you can, limiting your portion size to make digestion easier on your body.

References

Article reviewed by Lisa Michael Last updated on: Jun 14, 2011

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