What causes flatulence

Introduction to Flatulence

Flatulence is one of the many gastrointestinal symptoms. It represents accumulation of the gas inside the intestine and subsequent distension of intestine. In severe case of flatulence, a person's belly may become bloated. It is normal that a certain amount of gas is produced during digestion of food; however, in case of flatulence, the production of gas is excessive and it may be unpleasant especially if it is accompanied by passing gas through the rectum. Flatulence may be associated with consumption of certain foods and it can also be caused by certain gastrointestinal disorders.

Causes of Flatulence

The most common cause of flatulence is definitely consumption of certain foods. The major culprits of excessive production of gas in the intestine are beans, certain vegetables (broccoli, cabbage, onions etc), some fruits (pears, apples, peaches etc), whole grains (bran), soft drinks and fruit drinks, mild and dairy products, packaged foods with lactose (cereal, bread), dietetic foods, sugar-free candies and gums containing sorbitol. By avoiding these particular foods one may successfully prevent flatulence.

One more cause of flatulence is swallowing air. People who tend to swallow too much air while eating are either prone to belching or to flatulence. They may also suffer from both. This problem can be solved if one eats slower. Furthermore, activities such as smoking, chewing gum, sucking pen tops etc may contribute to swallowing of excess of air and subsequent flatulence. This is why these habits must be restricted.

Flatulence can additionally develop as a consequence of certain gastrointestinal problems such as improper digestion. In many people intake of certain carbohydrates (no matter how necessary they are for our bodies) leads to digestive problems and flatulence. People suffering from food intolerance deal with flatulence each time they consume the particular food they are intolerant to. People suffering from constipation usually have to deal with flatulence as well.

And finally, flatulence may be connected to some serious gastrointestinal conditions, such as,irritable bowel syndrome, nutrient malabsorbtion, Hirschsprung's disease, anal inflammation, hemorrhoids and celiac disease. Infections of the gastrointestinal tract such as gastroenteritis may be another cause of flatulence. Intestinal obstruction of any kind is always accompanied with flatulence.

Flatulence is not so hard to deal with especially if it is not caused by a serious medical condition.