How to Control Passing Gas

Flatulence have you feeling a little embarrassed? Passing gas is a natural function of a healthy human digestive system, but it can seem downright deadly in certain social situations. The average human produces about .75 liters of flatus in a day, releasing on average 11 to 14 times each day--but that doesn't mean it's OK in polite company. Learn how to control flatulence and when to see a doctor.

Things You'll Need

• Gas medicine or lactase supplements

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Instructions

• 1

  Change your diet. Dietary sugars, especially sorbitol, lactose and fructose, can contribute to flatulence. Limit foods that contain these ingredients, such as milk and artificial sweeteners, to help reduce flatulence. Starches (with the exception of rice) are also major contributors to gas. Success with diet change relies on a process of trial and error, so eliminate different elements of your diet one by one to identify which is most effective.

• 2

  Take supplements. If you are especially sensitive to certain foods, taking a gas medicine or lactase supplement before eating certain foods will reduce flatulence. Gas medicine is most likely to help with the breakdown of vegetables that would otherwise contribute to gas, while lactase supplements are useful for gas caused by lactose.

• 3

  Stop swallowing air. Some of the gases in flatus are simply from the air we swallow. You can reduce the amount of swallowed air (and thus, passed gases), by not chewing gum or sucking on hard candies.

• 4

  Take proactive measures. If you're already in a tough spot, like feeling gassy while at a social event, try proactively passing gas. Excuse yourself to the bathroom, kneel on the floor with your arms stretched in front of you, bottom in the air, and relax your muscles. This should allow you to quietly pass most of the gas in your bowels.

• 5

  See a doctor if you pass gas significantly more than 14 times per day. Excessive flatulence may be a sign of a more serious digestive problem, such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome. If your doctor discovers IBS or some other underlying medical condition, he may be able to prescribe medication for it.