Flatulence is a normal body function that can cause embarrassment for some people. A healthy person will pass gas 14 times per day. However, sometimes flatulence occurs more often because of what you eat. Certain foods produce gas inside the stomach, and this gas becomes trapped in the large intestine. In order to remove this gas from the body, it is pushed out by the intestines through the rectum, causing flatulence. At times there can be stomach pain and bloating associated with flatulence. Certain foods can be avoided, which will in turn help keep flatulence to a minimum.
Beans
Beans are probably the most well-known food that causes flatulence. The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse explains that beans contain a natural complex sugar, called raffinose. The body is unable to process this sugar, so it is passed into the large intestine. Once it reaches this area, it is broken down and gas is released. Another reason beans cause flatulence is because they are very high in fiber. Fiber is a well-known contributor to gas. Because beans are high in vitamins and minerals, as well as a valuable source of protein and fiber, they should be consumed regularly. If gas is a problem, you should eat a smaller portion or seek alternatives.
Whole Grains
Whole grains contain large amounts of fiber, which is known to produce gas inside the body. Whole grains are also fermented inside the body during digestion, which produces significant amounts of gas. The Mayo Clinic states that whole grains can cause significant amounts of gas, especially if eaten in large amounts. In order to avoid this you should only eat small amounts of whole grains at a time. Whole grains are a vital part of a healthy diet, so it is important to continue consuming these foods. To cut down the amount of gas produced in the body from a single meal, avoid pairing foods that are high in gas-producing properties. For example, do not serve a meal of beans and whole grain bread.
Prunes
The University of Michigan states that prunes can cause large amounts of gas buildup, resulting in flatulence. The culprit in this case is another sugar by the name of sorbital. The body is unable to digest the sorbital. This sugar will go to the large intestine to be broken down and will produce large amounts of gas. The prune is a dried plum, and the drying process allows the amount of fiber in the fruit to become much more concentrated. Prunes have been used as a natural remedy for constipation for centuries.
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