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Intestinal gas, or flatus, comes from the bacteria normally found in the gut, and from swallowed air. The amount produced varies from person to person. The odour of some gas comes from trace gases that are natural products from the breakdown of foods.
Foods that promote gas tend to be high in fibre or carbohydrates that are hard to digest, such as: - beans
- peas
- whole grains
- cabbage and related vegetables
- grapes, plums, and raisins
- corn
- onions
- red wine and beer
Patients with intolerances to wheat or milk may also make excessive gas. Others who eat them regularly seem to adjust to them. Swallowing air can come from eating too fast. Chewing gum also seems to contribute. When a person is anxious they may sigh and breathe deeply, leading to air swallowing. Swallowed air will increase belching and flatus production, but usually does not smell. Article #5411 Copyright (c) 2002 McKesson. All Rights Reserved. |
