Flatulence (Abdominal Gas)
Flatulence is the buildup of intestinal gas, and can cause frighteningly intense abdominal pain. Flatulence may also cause mild to severe distention of the abdomen and can affect some people on a regular basis. To relieve the pressure, excess gas is eliminated through the mouth or the anus. For most people, this can make work and play uncomfortable as well as painful (not to mention embarrassing).
May experts believe that flatulence is caused by the incomplete digestion of certain foods (primarily carbohydrates), fermentation of food in the digestive tract, or the swallowing of air when eating in a hurry. Food allergies and digestive disorders should always be evaluated if gas, constipation, or diarrhea occur regularly.
Lifestyle Suggestions
- Keep a record of foods eaten and personal behavior, such as eating too quickly, if gas develops regularly.
- Do not overeat. Too much food contributes to digestive fermentation, which causes gas.
- Limit the amounts of refined carbohydrates (white-flour foods) and sugars, both of which can cause excess gas.
- Limit the amounts of artificial sweeteners in the daily diet.
- Limit alcohol.
- Eat yogurt with live L. acidophilus cultures daily.
- Take digestive enzymes at every meal.
- Drink peppermint tea with fresh lemon juice frequently during the day.
- If problems persist, consult with a healthcare professional for an evaluation and diagnosis. Request testing for food allergies and gastrointestinal problems such as gallbladder and nutrient-absorption disorders.
May 20 2008 11:26 am | Health