Flatulence or farting occurs when gas builds up in the digestive system, usually, that leads to abdominal discomfort. People often pass gas without even noticing. If the gas is healthy it has no odor. Here is the mechanism behind flatulence whenever we eat or drink, we swallow some amount of air with it, this air accumulates in the gut. The gas within our digestive system consists mainly of oxygen and nitrogen. As this gas builds up, the body needs to eliminate it either through the mouth or bypassing wind through the anal passage. when there is a smell in this released gas, it contains some amount of sulfur, if food has not been properly digested it releases sulfur.
Following are the types of flatulence
Flatus with bloating and cramp-like abdominal pain.
Flatus in an excessive amount.
Smelly flatus.
Signs and symptoms of flatulence/gas pains include
Passing gas.
Cramps or pain in your abdomen.
A feeling of pressure or fullness(bloating).
Observable increase in the size of your abdomen.
When to see a doctor
If your gas or gas pains are so persistent.
If it comes with pain and interferes with your daily life activities.
Bloody stools, constipation or diarrhea, or heartburn.
Following are the causes of flatulence
Smoking.
Chewing gum.
Constipation.
Gastroenteritis.
Not chewing food properly while eating.
Having an excess of soft drinks.
Crohn's disease.
Celia disease.
Diabetes.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease.
Peptic ulcers.
Autoimmune pancreatitis.
Food intolerance.
Dumping syndrome.
If your diet doesn't contain a large number of sugars or carbohydrates and you don't swallow excessive air, your flatulence may be due to a medical condition.
Have a look at these preventive measures
Stop chewing gum.
Avoid carbonated beverages.
Exercise regularly, take a walk after a meal.
Avoid foods that are known to cause gas.
Sit down during each meal.
Quit smoking.
Try enzyme supplements that help to break down complex carbohydrates.
Eat probiotics.
Do not overeat.
Manage your stress.
Flatulence is a common condition and comes with discomfort.
Manage flatulence with these managing tips
Avoid foods such as lentils and beans.
Limit your sugar.
Take a walk after every meal.
Avoid tight-fitting clothes.
Drink plenty of fluids.
Add these yoga poses to improve digestion -
- Ardha matsyendrasana.
- Apanasana.
- Bhujangasana.
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