Flatulence, also called intestinal gas, is a natural occurrence, especially after eating. If they are smelly or excessive, it can be bothersome. How to get rid of it?
What is flatulence?
“Flatulence is gas naturally eliminated by the anus. It is produced by the intestinal flora which degrades food, in particular by a phenomenon of fermentation which leads to the formation of gas in the intestine normally evacuated with the stools”, explains Dr. Frédéric Cordet, hepato-gastroenterologist in Bordeaux and general secretary of the National Syndicate of Doctors of the Digestive System (Synmad). Flatulence usually occurs after meals because they form about 3 hours after ingesting food. They are emitted without pain.
Why does flatulence smell bad?
While flatulence is completely normal, some are particularly odorous and/or excessive. It is the result ofe their stagnation in the colon following the ingestion of certain foods, but also because fart contains hydrogen sulfide, famous for its rotten egg smell. Skatole and indole are two chemicals that are also present in fart and smell particularly bad.
What foods cause flatulence?
“Constipation and a diet rich in fermentable products (such as sugars, fats, some fruits and vegetables) will aggravate this phenomenon and be responsible for bloating, abdominal pain, and untimely and most often malodorous gas emissions”, explains Dr. Cordet. Flageolets are particularly known to cause flatulence, but other foods can cause flatulence, such as soybeans, lentils, cabbage or peas. Dairy products also release a lot of gas during digestion. On the other hand, starches like potatoes and pasta also promote flatulence as they are broken down in the intestine.
What advice to avoid flatulence?
To avoid flatulence, it is recommended to eat slowly and steadily, without overdoing it. On the other hand, it is not recommended to consume carbonated drinks, alcohol, coffee and tea. “A balanced diet and regular transit can limit these phenomena”summarizes Dr. Cordet.
What is the treatment for flatulence?
Several over-the-counter medications can relieve flatulence if it is not accompanied by signs of severity. This is the case of antispasmodic drugs “which contain simethicone“. If you should always seek advice from your doctor or pharmacist, you should also “beware of certain products supposed to pump gases, based on coal or clay, which constipate”concludes Dr. Cordet.
When to worry and consult?
Even if flatulence is smelly and excessive, it is normal and benign. However, it is necessary to consult when they are accompanied by abdominal pain. Similarly, the presence of vomiting, diarrhea, fever and/or blood in the stools should lead to an emergency consultation.
Thanks to Dr Frédéric Cordet, hepato-gastroenterologist.