Why Do I Keep Farting?

Most of us make freeing little noises every day related to our digestive processes. But a toot out the rear can be more of an embarrassment than a relief. While there are ways to be discreet about occasionally passing gas, it’s considered flatulence if it happens too often. 

Healthline states that the average person passes gas between 5 and 15 times each day. But when it gets excessive or uncontrollable, it can be a real issue. If you've ever been a member of a health and wellness group, it's one of the most common questions asked. So let's get to the bottom of it, so to speak. 

Food Intolerance Can Cause Gas

Some people who experience chronically bad gas may not realize that what they're eating may act as an underlying trigger. It may just be that we've eaten something that disagrees with our system. Look for other symptoms such as indigestion to know if this may be the cause. Or look for commonalities such as "every time I eat wheat I get gassy." Foods that might cause gas attacks with or without an intolerance issue may include:

• Beans and nuts
• Foods containing dairy
• Yeast products
• Grains
• Cruciferous vegetables (e.g., broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts) 

If gas seems to be more prevalent after a meal, it may be wise to try a food elimination diet to find the culprit. This strategy can be incredibly helpful because we slowly eliminate specific foods until the cause becomes evident. From there, try a gradual reintroduction to confirm or to find the limits beyond which you get gassy.

Medications Can Cause Gas

Medications might also trigger flatulence. Both prescription and non-prescription meds could be to blame. Medicines that may be culprits include:

• Aspirin
• Opioids
• Multivitamins and fiber supplements
• anti-Diarrhea medications

Even antacids taken for stomach-related issues can produce a flatulence attack soon afterward or even the next day. Not only can they cause excess gas, but they can also lead to bloating. If these symptoms sound familiar, it’s best to schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider. Please don't change up regular meds without the assistance of a physician.

Daily Habits

If diet or medications don’t seem to be to blame, it might pay to look at daily habits and routine. Chewing gum or even talking too fast may lead to swallowing too much air. Even drinking carbonated beverages, including canned pop, can contribute to swallowing too much air and carbon dioxide. Remember, the gas that goes in must come out. If you're exercising (we hope you are!) are you gulping while you exercise? What's your sleeping like? Could you be swallowing air in your sleep?

Digestive Problems Can Cause Gas

Some underlying digestive issues are known to trigger a gassy belly. Ulcerative colitis and irritable bowel syndrome can lead to cramping, stomach discomfort, and a lot of gas. Those with celiac disease may suffer from reactions that can often trigger gas. Getting these problems under control with medication and lifestyle changes is a starting point for correcting bad gas outbreaks. 

The smell and noise can be discouraging and embarrassing for anyone. Farting is something most of us try to control or relegate to the bathroom or somewhere private, but we should seek answers if it gets out of control. While occasional gas is perfectly normal, it doesn't always feel that way. But with a few minor lifestyle changes, it’s usually possible to resolve the issue. The first step is usually finding the courage to speak to a physician about it. 

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