Gas and bloating are caused by constipation and foods that are difficult to digest, such as dairy products and beans. Bacteria in the colon also contribute to excess gas. Diarrhea and constipation can also cause bloating. Eating a healthy diet and taking over-the-counter medications can help, but persistent issues should be evaluated by a doctor.
The most common causes of gas and bloating are constipation and eating foods that cause high levels of swallowed air and intestinal bacteria. Some foods are more gassy than others, especially dairy products and others that are difficult to digest. Sometimes constipation can also lead to excess gas and bloating, especially if fermented food waste has been sitting in the colon for an extended period of time. Other times the opposite problem, diarrhea, can also cause bloating and abdominal discomfort.
Most frequently gas and bloating occur when you consume foods that your body has trouble digesting effectively. These can be anything, as every individual is different. Some types of foods are more notorious than others for causing gas, including dairy products, beans, and cruciferous vegetables.
Bacteria in the colon are naturally present and help break down food during digestion. Items that are harder to digest require more work to do and result in more gassing in the process given off by these bacteria. This leads to excess gas being trapped within the intestines and can cause bloating and discomfort.
Similarly, gas and bloating can be caused by conditions like diarrhea, which are also often caused by digestive bacteria. When harmful bacteria become prevalent in the digestive tract, diarrhea can occur and is often accompanied by painful gas. This can usually be cured by waiting for the body’s immune system to kill excessive levels of bacteria or by taking an anti-diarrheal medication.
Constipation can also cause gas and bloating because while waste materials sit in the colon, bacteria keep trying to break it down. This leads to gas, while hard stools can cause bloating. Taking an over-the-counter laxative usually solves this problem, as does eating more high-fiber foods and drinking adequate fluids throughout the day.
Gas and bloating can be embarrassing and uncomfortable issues. To avoid them, it’s important to eat a healthy diet rich in fiber, water, and other fruits and vegetables. If one is not used to eating a lot of fiber, it should be added slowly, as it can cause excess gas. There are also over-the-counter medications that can help the body break down foods more effectively, thereby reducing gas production.
Occasionally, severe or chronic gas or bloating can signal a serious medical condition. If problems persist despite changes in eating habits, it’s a good idea to see a doctor for further tests. Very rarely, gastrointestinal disturbance can signal an underlying condition such as cancer or intestinal obstruction, although this is rare.
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