The problem of gas is extremely common and something that all of us are familiar with. Gas can be discomforting and downright embarrassing at times, causing a bloated sensation, and flatulence. Although the problem is very minor and medically is non threatening and not a cause for worry it can cause psychological and social problems because of the social connotations attached to the problem.
The problem of gas and flatulence is exceedingly common and most closely associated with dietary habits. Problems in the digestion of certain types of foods and erratic eating habits can contribute to or cause gas formation and flatulence. In most cases simply understanding the causes can help you treat the problem. Any of these factors could be responsible:
- Excessive intake of fibrous foods
- Constipation
- Digestive disorders, like gastroenteritis, that affect the gastrointestinal tract.
- Irritable bowel syndrome
- Unhygienic preparation of food
- Contaminated water
- A diet that is high in fat or an excessive intake of starchy protein rich foods like potatoes.
- Metabolic breakdown of proteins congaing sulfur and amino acids in the intestines
- Fat mal-absorption
- Air that is ingested
- Breakdown of undigested foods
- Certain Medications or Drugs
If you find that any of these factors may be responsible and there is something that can be done then take the appropriate action. A healthy balanced diet, with regular meal timings would generally suffice and is in fact necessary. In addition to checking to your diet here are some tips and remedies that should help alleviate your problem:
- Excessive intake of fibrous foods
- Constipation
- Digestive disorders, like gastroenteritis, that affect the gastrointestinal tract.
- Irritable bowel syndrome
- Unhygienic preparation of food
- Contaminated water
- A diet that is high in fat or an excessive intake of starchy protein rich foods like potatoes.
- Metabolic breakdown of proteins congaing sulfur and amino acids in the intestines
- Fat mal-absorption
- Air that is ingested
- Breakdown of undigested foods
- Certain Medications or Drugs
If you find that any of these factors may be responsible and there is something that can be done then take the appropriate action. A healthy balanced diet, with regular meal timings would generally suffice and is in fact necessary. In addition to checking to your diet here are some tips and remedies that should help alleviate your problem:
- Most of us tend to swallow our food pretty quickly, and this is a major contributor to the problem. Chewing your food is an important aspect of the digestive process, and should not be compromised on. Chew your food slowly and thoroughly.
- Add a pinch of asafoetida and rock salt, along with half a teaspoon of dry ginger powder to a glass of warm water and drink it.
- After every meal make it a point to chew on some ginger slices after soaking them in lemon juice.
- You can also have half a teaspoon of honey with a drop of dill oil added in, after every meal.
- Peppermint is also an effective remedy and you can even have it in an herbal tea or try other teas like caraway, anise or spearmint.
- Avoid carbonated drinks, beer, yeast containing foods like cheese or bread, and foods like cabbage, beans, cauliflower and broccoli.
- Never drink water immediately after or while having a meal as it interferes with digestion by diluting the digestive juices.
answered by S D