Multivitamins contain a variety of different vitamins. Certain ingredients found in multivitamins, such as brewer's yeast, folic acid and vitamin E, can cause gas or flatulence. You may not need a multivitamin, so ask your health-care provider before you start taking one. If he determines that a multivitamin is appropriate for you and you then experience gas as a side effect, discuss your options with your physician.
Brewer's Yeast
Brewer's yeast is made from a fungus and is often used as a source of vitamin B complex, selenium and chromium, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. These nutrients are vital because they help your body to break down fats, carbohydrates and proteins, all of which gives you energy. The UMMC states that side effects of brewer's yeast are typically mild and may include gas. Brewer's yeast may also cause hypoglycemia in diabetics and cause yeast infections in those who are already sensitive to yeast infections, such as pregnant women.
Folic Acid
Folic acid is present in multivitamins and prenatal vitamins. Folic acid helps prevent birth defects during pregnancy. Side effects of folic acid include headache, nausea, abdominal distention, gas, anorexia and a bad or bitter taste when taking the supplement. It is also possible that folic acid may cause mental confusion or irritability, altered sleep patterns and impaired judgment. Rare allergic reactions to folic acid have been reported, and they include side effects such as a skin rash, difficulty breathing, general malaise, and hives.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is an important antioxidant that helps your body heal and repair itself from free radicals. Vitamin E also plays another important role, as it helps your body use vitamin K, which forms red blood cells. Taking large doses of vitamin E can cause side effects such as gas, diarrhea, nausea, headache, weakness and blurred vision. Drugs.com notes that these side effects are not serious and may occur with especially large doses or prolonged use.
Gas Relief
If your doctor finds it medically necessary for you to continue taking a multivitamin, ask about over-the-counter gas relief medication to relieve your symptoms. Your doctor may advise you to begin taking an OTC gas relief medication if you have a severe case of gas or if it is very bothersome for you. If your physician decides that you may discontinue your multivitamin, symptoms may dissipate shortly after you cease taking the multivitamin.
