How to Prevent Gas

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While intestinal gas is a normal occurrence within the digestive process, it can also cause bloating, burping and flatulence. Follow these tips to remedy the problem.

Warning
See a doctor if persistent gas is accompanied by diarrhea, constipation, vomiting, or weight loss.

Step 1: Control air intake
Gas is often created by excess air intake. Avoid eating too quickly, drinking through a straw, drinking carbonated beverages, chewing gum, and sucking on hard candy. And quit smoking!

Tip
Poorly fitted dentures can also cause you to swallow excess air when eating and drinking.

Step 2: Cut back on gas inducing foods in diet
Diet can be another culprit. Try cutting back on items such as milk and other dairy products, onions, apples, beans, broccoli, and artificial sweeteners.

Tip
To figure out which type of food most affects you, eliminate one at a time and see how your body reacts.

Step 3: Try over-the-counter products
Try over-the-counter remedies such as antacids, simethicone, and lactase supplements.

Step 4: Take a walk
Take a 10- to 15- minute walk after eating to aid the digestive process. Avoid lying down right after a meal.

Step 5: Examine antibiotic usage
Antibiotics can disrupt the flow of bacteria within the body, causing gas. Talk to your doctor if you suspect that antibiotic usage may be a culprit.

Step 6: Consult doctor
Intestinal gas pain usually runs its course within several minutes. If it persists for an hour or more, consult a doctor.

Did You Know?
According to the Mayo Clinic, it's considered normal to release intestinal gas 14 to 23 times a day.