Table of Contents
- 1. Smelly farts
- 2. Odourless gas
- 3. Gas that feels like you need to ‘go’
- 4. Gas that feels hot
- 5. Excessive gas
- 6. Food faux pas
- Release wind - 5 tips to get farts out fast
AFTER a few indulgent days, your stomach may be feeling the effects of Christmas feasting.
Experiencing digestive discomfort is never pleasant—especially when you're in a situation where you need your stomach to cooperate.
Foul-smelling gas? You might want to consult a doctor.Credit: Shutterstock
Have you ever been concerned about yourself or someone else?
Your diet and digestion significantly influence how gassy you feel, as well as the type of gas you produce.
Sometimes, it's just harmless gas that escapes without any odor.
Other times, the smell can be so overwhelming that you might wish for a gas mask.
Experiencing gas occasionally is completely normal.
However, if your post-Christmas stomach is causing discomfort, here’s what you need to know about your situation:
1. Smelly farts
It's never pleasant to release gas that offends even your own senses.
“Foul-smelling gas is typically caused by sulfur-containing compounds produced during digestion,” explains Dr. Phillip Mayhead, a consultant gastroenterologist at Benenden Hospital in Kent.
“Foods that are high in sulfur, such as broccoli, cabbage, and eggs, can contribute to this type of flatulence.”
Sas Parsad, a supplement expert and founder of The Gut Co , adds: “Some people may be more sensitive to sulfur compounds, making the odor more pronounced.”
In some cases, an underlying issue such as food intolerance (or ) or a condition known as SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth) may cause foul-smelling gas.
These conditions can lead to digestive symptoms like flatulence, stomach pain, bloating, and cramps.
SIBO can be serious because it may result in malnutrition, while gluten intolerance requires careful dietary management.
Generally, a lack of bacterial diversity in the gut, often due to a monotonous diet, can affect gas production.
Dr. Mayhead states: “The amount and type of gas produced will largely depend on an individual's diet and colonic flora.”
Probiotics and prebiotics can enhance gut health and include foods like sauerkraut, pickles, yogurt, sourdough, and a diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
This can, in turn, improve the odor of your gas.
Dr. Mayhead cautions that consistently passing foul-smelling gas—especially when accompanied by other symptoms—might necessitate a visit to a healthcare provider.
He notes: “The following symptoms should raise concern: unexplained weight loss, severe pain, or feeling a lump in the abdomen.”
2. Odourless gas
Odourless gas is typically not a cause for concern, although it may indicate that you are eating too quickly.
Dr. Mayhead explains: “Odourless gas usually consists of nitrogen, oxygen, carbon dioxide, and small amounts of other gases.
“It’s the most common type of flatulence and is often related to swallowing air while eating or drinking.”
In fact, odourless gas released in small quantities is simply a byproduct of digestion, according to Dr. Mayhead.
“When you eat, you swallow air, and your gut bacteria produce gases as they break down food.”
To reduce the likelihood of gas, try eating slowly and mindfully.
If you still find yourself rushing through meals, consider putting down your utensils between bites to help slow down.
3. Gas that feels like you need to ‘go’
If you experience frequent, excessive flatulence, it may be due to various factors, including swallowing air or consuming specific gas-producing foods.
However, it could also indicate digestive disorders such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) or other conditions.
Dr. Mayhead notes that these conditions “can be associated with more frequent bowel movements or a strong urge to use the restroom,” commonly referred to as urgency.
Sas adds: “Excessive or persistent gas, along with other symptoms like bloating, diarrhea, or abdominal pain, may suggest digestive issues such as food intolerances, IBS, or other gastrointestinal conditions.
“If you experience these symptoms regularly, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional.”
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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