Almost everyone feels gassy and bloated sometimes. But some people experience it frequently and wonder why it’s happening so often.
Gas in the stomach is frequently caused by swallowing air while eating and drinking, which is generally released by burping. In the intestines, gut bacteria produce gas while digesting carbohydrates such as fiber, starches, and sugars, a process known as fermentation.
Passing gas can often eliminate the gas that’s in the digestive tract. However, excessive fermentation may result in lots of gas trapped in the digestive system, causing gas pain or bloating.
Foods that are high in fiber can increase gas production, especially if you eat a lot of fiber when you aren’t used to it. Examples of high-fiber foods include:
Fiber supplements such as Metamucil may also increase gas.
Other foods or drinks that can increase gas include carbonated beverages such as soda and beer. Sugar substitutes like artificial sweeteners have been known to cause excessive gas production.
People who eat foods they can’t tolerate will produce more gas because they can’t digest and break down the foods effectively. This is different than food allergies, which can be life-threatening. Some people feel everything they eat gives them gas and bloating.
Lactose, the sugar in dairy products, and gluten, which is found in wheat and other grains, are two common food sensitivities. Different types of foods can cause food intolerance, especially those containing sulfites, histamines, or FODMAPs.
Foods that contain sulfites include:
Foods that contain histamines include:
Foods that contain FODMAPs include:
Some habits, such as eating too quickly, chewing gum, and talking while chewing, lead to increased swallowed air and gas build-up in the stomach. Drinking through a straw can cause you to swallow more air than drinking without one.
Gas discomfort and bloating can be caused by medical conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), chronic intestinal diseases such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, constipation, and small intestine bacterial overgrowth (SIBO).
Occasional gas and bloating are typical and may resolve on their own or with simple changes to get rid of it. However, severe gas and bloating could signal underlying digestive or intestinal conditions. It is essential to see a doctor if gas pain and bloating are persistent and interfere with daily life.
Seeing a doctor is important if the gas and bloating are accompanied by:
Don’t suffer from unnecessary gas pain or bloating. Schedule an appointment today!
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