I watched a TV episode of “The Doctors” last month, which discussed the rising problem with flatulence during the pandemic. Some interesting facts were provided by a gastrologist. Men expel more gas, but women’s gas smells worse. There has been an increase of 40% of gas complaints mainly due to the quarantine and eating the wrong foods. People create gas in two ways: swallowing air and the bacteria in your large intestine digests your food.
Bob Larson
Common causes of normal flatulence include chewing gum, smoking, having loose-fitting dentures, hot and fizzy drinks, foods containing a high amount of carbohydrates such as beans, broccoli, cabbage, pulses and cauliflower, some fruits and fruit drinks, whole grain foods, and various medicines including non- steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS)(ibuprofen) and of course, laxatives.
WebMD, a popular medical website written by doctors, recommends seeing a doctor if you notice the flatulence is particularly troublesome. See a doctor immediately if you notice these symptoms: persistent abdominal pain and bloating, recurring episodes of diarrhea or constipation, unexplained weight loss, bowel incontinence, blood in stools (feces), and signs of an infection – such as a high temperature, vomiting, chills, joint pain and muscle pain.
However, there are several treatments to resolve most common flatulence problems: 1) avoid carbohydrate food known to cause gas, 2) drinking water about 30 minutes before a meal to help your stomach digest better, 3) chew food thoroughly, 4) eat and drink slowly, 5) avoid smoking, 6) avoid soda and other carbonated beverages, 7) avoid drinking through straws (draws in more air), avoid artificial sweeteners, 8) exercise such as taking a walk after a meal, 9) over the counter meds include ant-acids or anti-gas, probiotics, lactase products, and beano, and 10) charcoal pads in underwear to reduce the odor. Research and technology come to the rescue! Bob Larson is a technologist and marketing director for 50 Plus.