Intestinal Gas Problems

Although intestinal gas is a natural part of digestion, an abundance of gas can be uncomfortable and embarrassing. According to MayoClinic.com, intestinal gas is a combination of carbon dioxide, nitrogen, oxygen, and other forms of natural gas. While everyone experiences some gas, certain individuals may find it troublesome if it occurs often and results in painful bloating or a foul odor.

Gas-forming foods

• Some foods are less digestible than others. When consumed, they may result in the formation of excess intestinal gas. Not everyone digests foods with the same ease, but certain foods are more likely to result in intestinal gas, including dairy products if the individual lacks sufficient lactose enzyme in the stomach. Other common culprits may be onions, wheat products and soft drinks. Beans contain raffinose; a sugar that many find contributes to intestinal gas. Broccoli, asparagus and cabbage contain raffinose in lesser quantities.

What's normal?

• The Mayo Clinic reports that an average adult passes gas (flatulence) between 14 and 23 times per day, with an average of between one pint and four pints of intestinal flatulence passing in a twenty-four hour period. Smokers may experience more intestinal gas than non-smokers, and vegetarians may have more gas than their meat-eating friends.

Discomfort

• When gas-forming food is consumed--and the digestive system is overwhelmed--the individual's abdomen may become distended with accompanying discomfort. Often, the discomfort is not relieved until the person belches or passes gas. In situations where the individual cannot comfortably pass gas, the intestines may fill with excess intestinal gas, creating pressure and pain.

Odor

• For some individuals, it's not the amount of intestinal gas they pass, but it's an offensive odor that causes concern. MedicineNet.com advises that odorous flatulence often accompanies the consumption of foods that produce sulfur during digestion. Some foods tend to ferment in the intestines, resulting in a foul odor. Foods containing fiber and starch may begin to ferment in the intestines before they are expelled in the feces, and foul-smelling gas may result.

Prevention/Solution

• If excessive gas becomes a problem--in the form of belching or flatulence--diet adjustment or enzyme supplementation may offer the individual some relief. Consider eating slowly, taking time to chew your food thoroughly and reducing or eliminating carbonated drinks from your diet. Quit smoking. Limit starchy and fibrous foods. Try a lactose enzyme supplement to prevent excessive gas from dairy foods.

Warning

• Excessive intestinal gas that does not respond to dietary and lifestyle changes may be a sign of an underlying digestive condition. See your physician if your intestinal gas problems continue after you take steps to reduce them or if they increase.