Flatulence is the result of gases produced in the intestines during the breakdown and digestion of food, and can be a very embarrassing problem in social situations. In order to get flatulence under control, the first thing one must do is to carefully monitor dietary intake. While it varies from individual to individual, generally foods that are high in polysaccharides are major contributors to the production of intestinal gas. These include beans, onions, dairy products, and garlic, among others. Starches, such as potatoes, corn, and breads, can also contribute to flatulence. Some people may see increased flatulence from specific foods, which is why it’s essential to note the effect of these foods on gas production, and modify the diet accordingly.
Another option for the treatment of flatulence is dietary supplements. There are currently several treatments available which contain digestive enzymes in pill form. These enzymes aid in the breakdown of food and lead to complete digestion, which prevents the formation of intestinal gas in the lower intestines. In addition to digestive enzymes, there are also several antibiotic treatments available which help neutralize the effects of detrimental microorganisms in the digestive tract, such as E. coli. An overgrowth of these microorganisms can result in the release of unpleasant gas byproducts when food matter is introduced to the tract. These remedies, however, are best sought if an individual still has difficulties with flatulence, even after dietary modification.
Another treatment option is the introduction of probiotics into the diet. Probiotics include live yogurt, kefir, and various other milk products. These foods aid in the regulation of intestinal flora, which is the collection of microbiota present in the digestive tract. When the intestinal flora is properly balanced, food is more completely digested with fewer byproducts, leading to a reduction in gases. These foods can simply be added to the diet. Although the results will not be immediate, over time the microbiota in the intestines will generally move towards a more balanced composition. While flatulence itself poses little to no medical harm to a person, it can be a truly frustrating condition to contend with. Taking these simple steps will almost always lead to an improvement in symptoms, which can greatly increase quality of life, confidence, and comfort in social situations. Begin with the dietary suggestions and move on to pharmacological treatments as needed.