What is intestinal gas?

Everyone produces gas in their colon. In fact, most intestinal gas is produced in the colon. Gas is usually expelled during bowel movements. However, for some people, excessive gas can cause discomfort throughout the day.

 

Composition of Intestinal Gas

 

Intestinal gas consists mainly of five substances: oxygen, nitrogen, carbon dioxide and methane. The bad smell is usually due to other substances present in smaller amounts in the composition, such as hydrogen sulfide and ammonia.

 

Nitrogen and oxygen are found in the air we breathe and can be found in intestinal gas when air is swallowed. Some carbon dioxide is produced in the small intestine. Hydrogen, carbon dioxide, and in many people methane, are formed by the fermentation of undigested and unabsorbed carbohydrates in the small intestine by bacteria in the large intestine.

 

Foods That Cause Intestinal Gas

 

Foods that can cause excessive gas include chickpeas and beans, wheat, oats, bran, cabbage, corn and turnip greens. Dairy products can also cause problems for those who are lactose intolerant, a digestive enzyme. Eating foods high in fiber and using bulking laxatives can also cause excessive intestinal gas.

 

Measures

 

Sometimes, excessive gas can be caused by a disease in the digestive system; when the disease is treated, the gas will often subside. However, in most cases, the source of the gas is not a disease.

 

Although it can be very annoying, excessive intestinal gas is not a serious condition. Some people find that it improves by avoiding certain "gas-causing" foods, especially beans and dairy.

 

Swallowed Air

 

Swallowed air makes up a small portion of intestinal gas. On the other hand, the bloating you feel in your stomach is usually the result of swallowed air. Air can be swallowed along with food and drink or for other reasons. Eating too quickly or chewing gum can contribute to the problem. Burping and a feeling of pressure in your upper abdomen can be the result of swallowed air. You may not realize you are swallowing air. Carbonated drinks can release carbon dioxide in the stomach, which can cause gas.

 

Some of the swallowed air travels with the food into the small intestine. Some of this air dissolves in body fluids and is eventually expelled through the lungs.