Flatulence is a term used to describe the emission of gases from the gastrointestinal tract. The gas is a by-product of symbiotic bacteria and yeasts that live inside the intestine. Gas, which is technically called flatus, is expelled by pressure, and it is usually followed by a characteristic sound and foul odor.
Flatulence often causes discomfort and pain, and there is also a great social embarrassment associated with it.
What is causing flatulence
Several different factors can lead to flatulence. Passing gas is normal and all people do it every now and then. In fact, it is estimated that a healthy person passes gas at least five times a day. However, in some cases flatulence is a chronic problem that needs to be addressed.
Flatulence can be caused by trapped air. This happens when swallows food and liquids too fast. Carbonated drinks are another possible cause, since they ready contain small bubbles of gas. Certain foods are known to cause flatulence, especially beans, soy, onions, cabbage, cheese, bananas, rice, butter, yogurt, foods with high fiber content, high-fat and protein rich foods and many more. Excessive consumption of fresh fruit and vegetables can lead to methane build-up over time.
Certain diseases and conditions are known to have flatulence as one of the symptoms, like irritable bowel disease, gastroenteritis, constipation, diarrhea, or colorectal cancer.
Flatulence remedies
There are many effective home remedies against persistent flatulence that combine items already at hand.
Ginger is one of the most effective flatulence remedies. It can be used in form of powder, especially if combined with some asafetida and some rock salt. Half a teaspoon of ginger powder, a pinch of asafetida and salt diluted in a cup of warm water are sure to bring relief for persistent gas. Another option is to simply chew a piece of fresh ginger, possibly soaked in some lemon juice for the sake of taste.
Cumin is a popular remedy against passing gas. It can be sprinkled on foods or taken in form of powder, half a teaspoon two times a day.
Dill mixed with honey or some brandy diluted in a glass of water and taken before bedtime can be very effective too. Peppermint tea helps with many digestive issues and it helps with flatulence too.
Other options include medications like Gaviscon, or small changes in lifestyle, that may include avoiding foods known for causing gas, eating small meals more often, eating slowly and chewing food well and thoroughly.
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