What Are the Causes of Excessive Chronic Flatulence?

Flatulence is a normal body function caused by the buildup of excess gas in the body. However, excessive flatulence is not normal and can be caused by several different factors.

Foods

Beans and brown rice are high in fiber Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of angela schmeidel randall

Foods such as beans and artichokes can cause an overproduction of bacteria in your stomach, which can lead to excessive flatulence. Consuming foods which contain high amounts of fiber, such as beans and brown rice, also causes flatulence.

Fructose Intolerance

Fructose intolerance is also caused by prunes and pears Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of futureatlas.com

Fructose intolerance causes excessive flatulence, diarrhea, and bloating in intolerant people who eat prunes, pears and apples.

Lactose Intolerance

Dairy should be consumed in moderation Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Jennifer Dickert

75% of people are lactose intolerant, which can cause excessive flatulence anytime you eat products containing dairy.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Stomach bloating can be just as uncomfortable as flatulence Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Sonya Green

The exact cause of IBS is unknown, but it is believed mental stress causes physical discomfort in the bowels. Symptoms include, bloating, cramping, constipation and flatulence.

Gastroenteritis

Gastroenteritis is inflammation of you GI tract and results in acute diarrhea, in addition to flatulence. Gastroenteritis is caused by bacteria in undercooked meat.

Remedies

To lessen excessive flatulence, drink more water, eat and chew food slower, and avoid sudden increases of fiber in your diet. Avoid eating beans, cabbage, brussel sprouts, broccoli and peas. If you are lactose intolerant, you should avoid dairy products.

References

• MedicineNet.com: Intestinal Gas (Belching, Bloating, Flatulence)
• WebMD: The Digestive System and Gas
• Emedicinehealth.com: Flatulence (Gas)