What Causes Flatulence

Flatulence or abdominal gas, which manifests itself in the form of gas being passed or belching is a natural phenomenon, however embarrassing and awkward it may be. Abdominal gas is created when the bacteria and the acids in the stomach break down the food during the digestion process. These gases may move up and be eliminated in the form of belching. However, if the gas is formed lower down in the intestines it may get trapped in between the solid waste matter. This gas is then eliminated from the body in the form of flatulence. Sometimes there is an excess of gas accumulated in the system because of the air that is swallowed while eating hurriedly, talking while eating or sipping juices through a straw. Certain foods also tend to cause more gas than others and these include cabbage, onions, bananas, prunes, dark beer and even wine. Apart from this, allergies to certain foods, lactose intolerance, or an irritable bowel syndrome are also common causes for flatulence.

Flatulence can be dealt with by using simple methods and home remedies. The best way to reduce abdominal gas is to stay physically active and exercise regularly to ensure the proper digestion of food. A balanced diet that is rich in fibers and does not lack the adequate intake of liquids is important to aid digestion and regularize bowel movements. It is also important to eat slowly, taking the time to chew each morsel and avoiding gulping down food hurriedly. This also prevents the problem of over-eating which is also one of main causes for flatulence.

Remedies for Flatulence

In addition to these simple methods there are several natural remedies for dealing with flatulence. Pumpkin is excellent for treating flatulence and thus it is recommended to consume pumpkin in any form, as a steamed dish, baked dish or as a soup. Yogurt is a very a rich source of acidophilus; this is a bacteria that aids digestion. It is therefore advisable to consume yogurt regularly to treat and prevent flatulence. For immediate relief from abdominal gas drink a glass of water to which 1 tsp lemon juice and ½ tsp baking soda has been stirred. Alternately ½ tsp of fennel seeds can be steeped in 1 cup of boiling water and the water can be consumed. Apart from this, fennel seeds can also be added to the food preparations. Coriander and clove are other spices which aid digestion and are beneficial for treating flatulence. They can either be used to prepare an infusion by adding ½ a tsp of the powder to 1 cup of boiling water, or by sprinkling them in food preparations. A gentle massage of the abdominal region using essential oils of cardamom, clove, cinnamon, fennel or ginger can help to ease the discomfort caused by abdominal gas and aid easy passage of the gas.