While gas may be very embarrassing, it is a natural and very common bodily function. Just about everyone experiences gas from time to time. There are many different things that can cause gas, such as too fast foods, chewing gum, drinking through a straw, and smoking. However, one of the most common culprits is the food we eat.
Gas is made up of nitrogen, oxygen, carbon dioxide, and methane. It’s normal to pass gas between 13 and 21 times a day. But if you’re passing gas more than that, it could be a sign of a digestive problem.
There are certain foods that are more likely to cause gas than others. Here is a list of 8 foods that can give you
There are some foods that are more likely to give you gas. Here are 8 of them:
- Beans
- dairy products
- Cruciferous vegetables
- artificial sweeteners
- whole grains
- processed foods
- alcohol
- carbonated drinks
Beans
Beans are a good source of fiber and protein, but they also contain oligosaccharides. These are types of carbohydrates that the body can’t digest. When they reach the large intestine, bacteria break them down, and this process produces gas.
Dairy products
Milk, cheese, and other dairy products contain lactose. Lactose is a sugar that the body can’t digest. When it reaches the large intestine, bacteria break it down and this process produces gas.
Cruciferous vegetables
Cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts, contain a type of carbohydrate called raffinose. Raffinose is a sugar that the body can’t digest. When it reaches the large intestine, bacteria break it down and this process produces gas.
Artificial sweeteners
Sweeteners like sorbitol and xylitol are sugar alcohols that the body can’t digest. When they reach the large intestine, bacteria break them down and this process produces gas. This gas later produces stomach pains and bloating. in worse cases, this becomes a real medical emergency if not released.
Whole grains
Whole grains are a good source of fiber, but they can also give you gas. That’s because they contain insoluble fiber, which the body can’t digest. When this type of fiber reaches the large intestine, it doesn’t break down and it produces gas.
Processed foods
Processed foods are often high in fat and low in fiber. This combination can make them hard to digest and can lead to gas. Other than this the oils used to make it tougher for the food to break down. the chewing and churning get problematic as well.
Alcohol
Alcohol can irritate the stomach and cause bloating and gas. How can alcohol cause bloating? Alcohol can cause the stomach to produce more acid than usual. This can lead to inflammation of the stomach lining (gastritis) and bloating.
Carbonated drinks
Carbonated beverages like soda, beer, and champagne contain carbon dioxide. When you drink them, the carbon dioxide is released into your digestive system. This can cause bloating and gas.
If you’re experiencing gas and bloating, there are a few things you can do to help relieve these symptoms. You can try
- avoiding foods that give you gas
- eating smaller meals
- exercising after you eat.
You can also take over-the-counter medications like simethicone to help relieve gas. If you’re still experiencing gas and bloating after making these changes, it’s important to see a doctor to rule out underlying medical conditions.
Gas related medical conditions
are often very painful and can have a significant impact on your quality of life. If you’re experiencing gas and bloating, don’t suffer in silence. Talk to your doctor about ways to relieve these symptoms.
There are many different ways to treat gas and bloating. The best way to treat these symptoms depends on the underlying cause. If you’re experiencing gas and bloating, talk to your doctor to find the best treatment for you.
If you need help you can visit a Gastroenterologist in Karachi at Hameed Latif Hospital.