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Flatulence: Causes & Tips for Relief

Flatulence, or the passing of gas, is a natural, although somewhat embarrassing, part of life. However, excessive or smelly gas can indicate underlying digestive issues. Understanding the causes and how to manage them can improve digestive health.



Six Common Causes of Flatulence

  1. Dietary Choices:

    High-fibre foods (e.g., beans, cabbage) and carbonated drinks can increase gas.

  2. Food Intolerances:

    Gluten intolerance or fructose sensitivity can cause fermentation.

  3. Gut Dysbiosis:

    An imbalance in gut bacteria can lead to excess gas.

  4. Digestive Disorders:

    Conditions like IBS or IBD may contribute to gas production.

  5. Slow Transit and Constipation:

    Prolonged fermentation increases gas.

  6. Low Stomach Acid:

    Incomplete protein digestion can cause gas.


How Herbalist can help

  • Carminative herbs ease bloating and improve digestion.

  • Digestive bitters improve enzyme production, helping to break down food more effectively.

  • Prebiotics nourish gut microbes, while antimicrobial herbs may help address specific conditions.

  • Anti-inflammatory herbs support the body’s healing processes esp helpful in the case of IBS

  • Gentle laxatives or bitters can promote bowel movements reliving constipation.

  • Digestive stimulants assist in breaking food down into more easily digestible components.



When to Seek Help from a General Practitioner Persistent gas accompanied by symptoms like bledding, pain, chronic diarrhoea, or weight loss are red flags may indicate serious issues that require professional evaluation.

Flatulence on a Vegan or High-Fibre Diet

Switching to a vegan diet may temporarily increase gas due to high fibre intake and gut adjustment.

Tips and Herbal Support

  1. Increase Fibre Gradually: Adjust slowly to avoid bloating.

  2. Identify Trigger Foods: Keep a food diary to pinpoint problematic foods.

  3. Hydrate: Drink water to support digestion.

  4. Support Gut Health: Include fermented foods, prebiotics, and probiotics.

  5. Chew Thoroughly: Reduce swallowed air and improve digestion.


Final Thoughts

Flatulence is common but manageable. Small dietary and lifestyle adjustments, along with herbal support, can promote better digestive health. A mindful approach can help keep your gut healthy. #Flatulence #DigestiveHealth #GutDysbiosis #IBS #Constipation #VeganDiet #GasProduction #StomachAcid #DietaryTriggers #HerbalSupport #LeonieSinclairherbalist #TripleTranquillity #Telehealth



Leonie Sinclair Clinical Herbalist - Triple Tranquillity Available for Telehealth Appointments











References

  1. Stewart et al., 2011. Journal of Functional Foods. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jff.2011.06.001

  2. McKay & Blumberg, 2006. Journal of Nutrition. https://doi.org/10.1093/jn/136.5.1333S

  3. Heyman, 2006. Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition. https://doi.org/10.1097/01.mpg.0000189353.01584.fc

  4. Bone & Mills, 2013. Principles and Practice of Phytotherapy. https://www.elsevier.com/books/principles-and-practice-of-phytotherapy/bone/978-0-443-06992-5

  5. Blaut & Clavel, 2007. FEMS Microbiology Reviews. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1574-6976.2007.00167.x

  6. Harris et al., 2012. Journal of Functional Foods. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jff.2012.03.003

  7. Chey et al., 2015. Gastroenterology. https://doi.org/10.1053/j.gastro.2014.11.012

  8. Bharucha et al., 2013. Gastroenterology. https://doi.org/10.1053/j.gastro.2012.12.036

  9. Rugge et al., 2012. Wiley-Blackwell. https://doi.org/10.1002/9781118347404

  10. Slavin, 2013. Journal of Nutrition. https://doi.org/10.3945/jn.112.171991

  11. Whelan et al., 2009. Clinical Nutrition. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.clnu.2009.03.011

  12. Popkin et al., 2010. Advances in Nutrition. https://doi.org/10.3945/an.110.000893

  13. Marco et al., 2017. Advances in Nutrition. https://doi.org/10.1093/advances/nmy026

Content Disclaimer The information provided in this blog is for your personal or other non-commercial, educational purposes. It should not be considered as medical or professional advice. We recommend you consult with a GP or other healthcare professional before taking or omitting to take any action based on this blog. While the author uses best endeavours to provide accurate and true content, the author makes no guarantees or promises and assumes no liability regarding the accuracy, reliability or completeness of the information presented. The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this blog are for general information only and any reliance on the information provided in this blog is done at your own risk.  Any third-party materials or content of any third-party site referenced in this blog/article/handout do not necessarily reflect the author’s opinion, standards or policies and the author does not assume any liability for them whatsoever.

 
 
 

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