Whether silent or loud, smelly or largely undetectable, we all fart. What causes gas though, and just how gassy is too gassy? Get all your gas questions answered!
It may be stinky, but breaking wind is a normal part of being a human. Lucky us, right?! While not the most glamorous topic out there, it is a topic that people have a lot of questions about. What causes gas? How much gas is too much? And can your farts tell you anything about your digestive health? We’re breaking down all things breaking wind today, and throwing in some fun fart puns while we’re at it. ;)
What is gas?
We’re not talking about gas as a state of matter today, just what’s in the body. So don’t worry, you’re not actually in science class right now. :P Gas is produced in our body in two ways: through swallowing air and the process of digestion. This gas exits the body in one of two ways: through the mouth (burping/belching) or the anus (farts).
How do we swallow air?
Now, when I say “swallow” air, I’m not just talking about normal breathing. Remember, our pharynx in our throat acts as both a transporter of air to the lungs and food to our digestive tract. Swallowing air involves the air traveling into our digestive tract instead of into our lungs. Small amounts of air are naturally swallowed during the process of eating and drinking. We can, however, swallow excess air which can cause increased gas. That additional gas we’re swallowing needs to leave the body somehow, afterall. Generally, swallowed air is expelled through the mouth with burping and belching, though it can sometimes cause increased air release from your nether region.
Some things that can cause you to swallow more air:
- Chewing gum
- Talking while eating
- Drinking carbonated beverages
- Eating or drinking quickly
- Smoking
- Sucking on hard candy or mints
How is gas formed during digestion?
While often looked down upon in social circles, breaking wind is actually healthy. Gas is produced when undigested carbohydrates (sugars, starches, and fiber) are fermented in our large intestine. This happens when the good bacteria in our large intestine breaks down these undigested carbohydrates, creating gas in the process.
What foods cause gas?
Honestly, pretty much anything can cause gas. It’s also something very individualized to each person.
The most likely culprits, however, are:
- Beans – yep, that song about beans being the “magical fruit that makes you toot” is not a myth
- Cruciferous vegetables – broccoli, cauliflower, brussels sprouts, cabbage, kale, etc
- Whole grains – and pretty much anything with fiber
- Dairy products – particularly if you experience lactose-intolerance
- Sugar free products – that contain the sugar alcohols mannitol, xylitol, or sorbitol
How is gas healthy?
There’s several reasons why breaking wind is actually good for you. The first is that it’s a sign that your digestive system is working as it should. Gas is a normal, natural part of digestion. Flatulence is also primarily caused by foods high in fiber and other beneficial nutrients. So if you’re eating a lot of these nutrient-packed foods, odds are you’ll have some flatulence. These undigested carbohydrates also feed the good bacteria in your large intestine, allowing them to continue to flourish and provide health benefits for you. So yeah, it’s stinky, but cutting the cheese is actually a good thing, promise.
How much gas is too much?
Believe it or not, but breaking wind up to 20 or more times per day is totally normal. If you’re gassier than normal, however, or are experiencing pain or discomfort upon flatulating it might be a sign to talk to your doctor. Excess or excessively smelly farts (more than would be usual for you, since we’re all very different) can be a sign of a potential digestive issue. Work with your doctor to come up with an individualized treatment plan if you’re concerned you may have excessive gas production.
While it’s never fun to clear a room with your farts, it’s time that we embrace our toots for the healthy, normal things they are. So gassy folks, let one rip, rejoice and thank your beneficial bacteria!