1. An Embarrassing Fact of Life
It is estimated that the average persons expels gas about 14 times a day, so to a certain extent, gas is perfectly normal. In addition to various digestive functions that cause gas, the colon is full of friendly bacteria that help your body to eliminate wastes. However, these non-harmful bacteria also tend to produce methane, oxygen, carbon dioxide and hydrogen which leave the body as gas.
2. What Goes In, Must Come Out
One of the most common causes of gas is swallowed air. While it is impossible to avoid swallowing small amounts of air, you can reduce flatulence by becoming aware of this simple fact. Chew your food well, as it helps to eliminate air trapped between pieces of food and also helps your body absorb the nutrients. Drink liquids slowly and allow yourself to belch if you feel you need to. Any air that is not removed from the stomach through burping will be eliminated as gas.
3. It's All in a Meal
Unfortunately, the culprits of your excessive gas may simply be a few of your favorite foods. Studies have shown that particular foods or food combinations cause bloating and gas. Some of the most common include wheat products, carrots, celery, onions, dried fruit and sorbitol, a common artificial sweetener. While the effects of certain foods will be different with every person, it is a good idea to monitor your diet in order to determine which foods should be eaten with caution.
4. Milk Doesn't Always Do a Body Good
Dairy products are among the most common food allergens known to man, and in addition to causing excess mucus, bloating and upset stomach, they also cause excessive gas. Dairy products are difficult for anyone to digest, worse for those with lactose intolerance. Once dairy products enter the digestive tract, they begin to ferment far more quickly than other food items. The process of fermentation creates air, which is expelled as gas.
5. When Gas Becomes Worrisome
If you have tried everything imaginable and still feel your gas is on the excessive side, it may be time to see your doctor. There are a number of digestive disorders which include flatulence as a symptom. Irritable bowel syndrome may be the most common condition; however, diverticulitis, bowel obstruction, redundant colon and cancer are other less common culprits. While it can be embarrassing discussing your bodily functions with others, setting your mind at ease will go a long way for calming your belly.
