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Intestinal-Gas Prevention

It is normal to have intestinal gas, but excess gas can be painful and embarrassing. Gas builds up in the intestine after air is swallowed and when it is produced as a normal part of the digestive process. If you are suffering from frequent intestinal gas, lifestyle changes may bring relief.

  1. Avoid Food Triggers

    • Limit your intake of gas-causing foods. Foods containing carbohydrates commonly cause gas, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). Sugars, starches and fiber are other common culprits. Dairy products are known to cause gas in people who are lactose-intolerant. Avoid beans, cabbage and carbonated drinks to minimize gas, according to the National Institutes of Health. A food that causes one person to have gas may not affect another person. Take note of foods that cause you to have excess gas.

    Change Habits

    • Reduce the amount of air you swallow to prevent intestinal gas. Eat slowly and chew your food well. Avoid chewing gum and sucking on hard candy. Do not overeat at meals, and avoid drinking from bottles and straws, according to the American College of Gastroenterology. Smoking, eating whipped foods and deep sighing also cause air to be swallowed. To help your body digest food properly, do not recline after a meal, and avoid wearing tight clothes. Take a walk after you eat to aid digestion.

    Consider Medications

    • Over-the-counter medications can prevent gas from developing. Digestive enzymes may also help. Your doctor may prescribe medications to prevent intestinal gas if you have a persistent problem.

    Warning

    • If you are experiencing pain in addition to intestinal gas, contact your doctor. Also seek medical attention if your gas is accompanied by heartburn or other digestive problems, unexplained weight loss or abnormal stools. These symptoms may indicate a problem that requires medical treatment. When you remove gas-causing foods from your diet, be sure you are still eating a balanced diet. Ask your doctor for dietary guidelines.

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