Excessive Flatulence
Information on controlling frequent excessive flatulence.
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What is Excessive Flatulence?
Flatulence occurs as a by-product of digestion. During the process of food breakdown, protein must be broken into its individual amino acids. Fats must also be broken into fatty acids, and carbohydrates must be broken into individual glucose molecules.
But when food does not break down completely in the stomach and small intestine, food makes its way into the large intestine in a semi-digestive state where it then ferments. This food then meets up with billions of hungry bacteria (the natural "intestinal fauna") we all have in our large intestine.
These bacteria produce a variety of gases such as methane, hydrogen and hydrogen sulfide. Hydrogen sulfide is the source of the odor (sulphur smells like rotten eggs) that we associate with Excessive flatulence and certain foods produce more excessive flatulence than others because they contain more indigestible carbohydrates than others. Beans, as you probably know, are particular culprits in this regard!
More Information on Excessive Flatulence
Tips to help prevent Excessive flatulence
- Watch your diet, as certain foods can produce excess gas in the intestine. These include: beans, bran, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, onions, beer, carbonated beverages and milk.
- Reduce stress factors, as stress is known to aggravate excessive flatulence. Abdominal muscles tend to tighten when you are under a great deal of stress. Also, the gastrointestinal tract is closely connected to the brain which is sensitive to anxiety, anger and depression. Under stressful situations, the brain sends signals to the gastrointestinal tract, which may then result in spasms and excessive flatulence.
- Exercise! In some cases, excessive flatulence can also be a product of a ‘rusty’ digestive system. It may help facilitate the foods’ smooth passage along the digestive tract by doing light activity, like walking. While on the floor with your knees drawn up to your chest and your arms wrapped around your legs, try rocking back and forth as this exercise is also known to promote the digestive process.
