Flatulence

Deflating flatulence

Flatulence – the expulsion of intestinal gas, or flatus, from the anus – is rarely associated with serious disease. However gas and flatulence can be both uncomfortable and embarrassing. Here is a look at the major causes of flatulence, and some tips for reducing the problem.

CAUSES OF FLATULENCE
✓ Air swallowed during chewing and eating; gum chewing and eating too fast; smoking and nervousness can contribute to the problem
✓ Carbonated beverages, bicarbonate of soda used as an antacid
✓ Fermentation in the large intestine of undigested food elements, especially sugars, carbohydrates and dietary fiber

TIPS FOR REDUCING FLATULENCE
✘ Avoid swallowing excess air by eating slowly and calmly.
✘ Chew food thoroughly before swallowing.
✘ Avoid laying down right after a meal, trapping gas in the stomach.
✘ Avoid carbonated beverages, chewing gum or sucking on sweets.
✓ Sit upright for an hour or so, or go for a short walk. Exercise regularly to keep food moving. Allow yourself to belch.
✓ Enzymes such as Beano and lactase can help cope with impartial digestion. Cut down on foods that cause the most gas, but don’t eliminate high-fiber foods completely. Cut down on sugars, especially sorbitol, or try sweeteners such as fructose or stevia.
✓ Acidophilous, the bacteria found in active-culture yogurt, may help your digestion. Pills are also available.

LABELS:
Mouth
Stomach
Small intestine
Large intestine
Anus

Text and illustrations by Kevin T. Boyd

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Acupressure for flatulence
Here are lists of acupressure points for Flatulence, on PointFinder.org.
If this is your first time, please read the instructions. Don’t use acupressure to replace standard emergency procedures or licensed medical treatment. If you are seriously injured or have acute symptoms seek urgent medical treatment.

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