Intestinal gas is a normal part of your digestive system, although some people may have too much intestinal gas, which can cause abdominal discomfort and other symptoms. Bacteria play an integral role in the level and makeup of intestinal gas; some intestinal bacteria generate gas, while others consume it. Dietary supplements have long been used in combating intestinal gas, but do not use supplements for this health purpose before clearing them with your doctor.
Intestinal Gas and Health
Two principle factors generate gas throughout your intestinal tract: swallowed air and the normal decomposition of undigested food by your gut bacteria. Carbohydrate-containing foods are a common source of gas, whereas foods that contain significant amounts of fats and protein rarely cause intestinal gas. Some of the most common signs and symptoms of intestinal gas include flatulence, abdominal bloating and abdominal pain or discomfort.
Useful Dietary Supplements
Numerous dietary supplements may be useful in treating your intestinal gas. However, not all supplements historically used for this health problem have been evaluated using contemporary scientific testing methods. In "Therapeutic Herb Manual," herb expert Ed Smith lists numerous supplements that may help treat flatulence, or intestinal gas, including basil, calamus, cinnamon, fennel, ginger, juniper and lemon balm. Other useful supplements for flatulence include peppermint, Roman chamomile and green tea.
Supplement in Focus
Fennel is a frequently prescribed dietary supplement in the treatment of intestinal gas. Fennel possesses carminative action, notes Sharol Tilgner, a naturopathic physician, expert herbalist and author of "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth." A carminative is a substance that encourages the expulsion of intestinal gas from your digestive tract. The seeds of the fennel plant contain numerous medicinal ingredients and are the part of the plant incorporated into dietary supplements.
Considerations
Dietary supplements are a time-honored treatment method for intestinal gas, but you should always avoid self-treating with supplements. Dietary supplements may cause unwanted side effects, especially if they are not used in accordance with the instructions provided by your health care practitioner. Discuss the immediate and long-term health effects of dietary supplements with your physician before using these natural substances to treat your intestinal gas.
References
- International Foundation for Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders: Understanding Intestinal Gas
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse: Gas in the Digestive Tract
- "Therapeutic Herb Manual"; Ed Smith; 2007
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Herb and Supplements for Flatulence
- "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
