Getting Rid Of Intestinal Gas

Health & FitnessMedicine

  • Author Rick Hutch
  • Published August 23, 2008
  • Word count 528

Avoid gas-promoting foods. The primary cause of flatulence is the digestive system's inability to absorb certain carbohydrates, says Samuel Klein, M.D., assistant professor of gastroenterology and human nutrition at the University of Texas Medical School at Galveston. Though you probably know that beans are sure fire flatus producers, many people don't realize that cabbage, broccoli, brussels sprouts, onions, cauliflower, whole wheat flour, radishes, bananas, apricots, pretzels, and many more foods can also be highly flatugenic.

Even though it's normally classified as poor etiquette, everyone does it. Belching and passing gas are natural functions of the body, but excessive amounts of intestinal gas are embarrassing and can even hurt if not passed. Here's how to reduce or get rid of intestinal gas.

Gas is a natural by-product of human digestion, but uncomfortable (and embarrassing amounts) are usually the result of indigestible sugars and carbohydrates, the digestion of which requires certain enzymes that the human body just isn't equipped with. Lucky for you, there are steps you can take to return your intestines to normal working oder and get rid of all that gas.

The formation of gas is the result of carbohydrates that have missed being completely digested. Instead of being broken down, certain complex carbohydrates (oligosaccharides) arrive intact in the intestine. Since the intestinal tract doesn't contain the necessary enzymes to split the oligosaccharides into simple sugars for absorption, they're fermented by bacteria that normally reside in the bowel. The result is gas.

Bloating is the common term for gas buildup in the stomach and intestines. It's often accompanied by abdominal pain — either mild and dull or sharp and intense. Passing gas or having a bowel movement may relieve the pain. Fatty foods are often the culprit. Fat delays stomach emptying and can increase the sensation of fullness. Bloating may also be related to: Stress or anxiety, A gastrointestinal infection or blockage.

Everybody has gas in his or her digestive tract (the esophagus, stomach, small intestine/bowel, and large intestine/bowel). The amount of gas varies and there is a wide range of normal (7-14 Tbsp. or 100-200 ml). What this gas is made up of and how it is distributed through the intestines are determined by how it is produced, how it moves through various areas of the bowel, and how it is eliminated.

Gas is a by-product of the human digestion and is produced in everybody. Though normal passage of gas may not be a problem, excessive intestinal gas can prove to be quite a nuisance. It can not only be painful, but can also be a cause of embarrassment. For getting rid of intestinal gas, one should primarily be careful about his/her diet and food habits. An improper diet is one of the major reasons behind increased intestinal gas production.

Ginger contains active constituents to support digestion and relieve nausea. Turmeric is traditionally used for dyspeptic conditions. Licorice is a digestive aid. Peppermint is thought to reduce spasms in the digestive tract. Chamomile contains active constituents that contribute to its anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and smooth-muscle relaxing action. Vitamin B Complex 50 is made up of several vitamins that work well together to support gastrointestinal health.

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