Having gas can be embarrassing, especially if you have to pass gas after every meal. A gassy stomach may be the result of a recent diet change where you’ve increased your daily fiber intake or you’re eating more gas-forming foods, such as vegetables. If you notice other digestive symptoms along with gas, you might have a digestive condition or food intolerance. Keep a food journal, detailing what you eat and how it affects you.
More Fiber
Fiber is an important part of a healthy diet, but if you suddenly increase the amount of fiber you ingest daily, you might experience increased gas, bloating and abdominal pain, according to MedlinePlus. Fiber adds bulk to your stool, which requires time for your digestive system to accommodate the increased amount of fiber. High-fiber foods include strawberries, dried plums, whole grains and beans. The average American consumes about 10 to 15 grams of fiber daily, but should consume between 20 and 35 grams depending on your age and gender. Slowly increase the amount of fiber you eat daily to reduce symptoms of gas and bloating.
Gas-Forming Foods
Gas is a normal part of digestion, but if you develop excessive amounts after every meal, you might be eating too many highly gas-forming foods. Gas in the digestive system is the result of a natural fermentation process that causes the creation of vapors. Most vapors leave the body through belching and passing gas, but trapped gas can cause pains throughout the abdomen. Common gas-forming foods include carbonated drinks, broccoli, beans, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, chewing gum, apples, pears, peaches and hard candy, according to MayoClinic.com.
Food Intolerance
Food intolerance is a common cause of a gassy stomach after every meal. If your digestive system cannot digest a certain portion of a food, it can cause bloating, gas, stomach pain and diarrhea within a few minutes after eating. Common food intolerances include gluten, lactose, milk proteins, MSG and foods high in histamine, according to the American College of Gastroenterology. The only way to prevent and treat a gassy stomach resulting from intolerance is to identify which foods trigger your symptoms and eliminate them from your diet.
Digestive Conditions
Chronic gas and bloating after eating may be a sign of a more serious medical condition, such as irritable bowel syndrome, Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. The primary treatments for these digestive conditions are through dietary changes, maintaining a stress-free life and medications.
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