Let’s be honest being gassy is no fun. Nobody enjoys feeling bloated or letting out frequent farts. While passing gas is a normal part of digestion, excessive gas can be uncomfortable and even embarrassing.
On average, most people pass gas about 10 to 20 times a day. But if you find yourself going way beyond that and constantly feeling bloated or uneasy, it may be time to make some changes.
One of the most effective ways to manage excessive gas is to practice mindful eating. How you eat can significantly impact how your body digests food and produces gas.
Additionally, several everyday habits may be contributing to that gassy, bloated feeling. In this article, we’ll explore the common causes of a gassy stomach and simple ways to find relief.
# You’re Swallowing Too Much AirTalking while eating, chewing gum frequently, or even drinking through a straw can cause you to swallow excess air. That trapped air has only two ways out — as a burp or as gas.
# You’re Eating Too Many Cruciferous VegetablesWhile healthy, veggies like broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts can produce more gas than other foods. They contain fiber and compounds that are tough to digest, leading to bloating.
# You’re Consuming Too Much DairyAs we age, many people lose the enzyme lactase, which helps digest dairy. Without enough lactase, milk, cheese, and ice cream can cause gas, bloating, and discomfort — especially in older adults.
# You’re Eating a Lot of CarbohydratesMost carbs break down into sugar during digestion, and the bacteria in your gut love sugar. When excess sugar reaches the colon, gut bacteria feed on it and release gas as a byproduct.
# You’re Having Too Much Diet Soda or Sugar-Free GumArtificial sweeteners like xylitol and sorbitol aren’t fully absorbed by the body. When these sweeteners reach the gut, they become a feast for bacteria — and that often leads to excess gas.
Understanding the reasons behind a gassy stomach is the first step toward relief. By adjusting your eating habits and avoiding certain triggers, you can significantly reduce bloating and gas. Keep reading to discover simple tips to release trapped gas and improve digestion naturally.