- Avoid foods that might cause gas. According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, foods that contain raffinose, lactose, fructose and sorbitol will increase gas. Foods like beans, cabbage, oat bran, broccoli, cauliflower, asparagus and whole grains will cause gas due to their raffinose content. Milk, cheese and ice-cream contain lactose which may increase gas. Fructose is a sweetener used in drinks and processed foods, and is present in pears, onions and artichokes, and is known to increase gas. The sweetener sorbitol is found in sugar-free foods, sugar-free sweeteners, apples, pears and peaches. Juices that contain fruit, including prune and apple juice might also cause excess gas. Soluble fiber found in some of these foods is not easily digested and may lead to excess gas production.
- Do not overeat. The author of "What to Expect When You're Expecting" suggests eating small portions of food many times per day. In addition, drink plenty of water to help increase nutrient absorption and fiber breakdown. If you eat food quickly, you may swallow excess air which can lead to gas. Chewing gum or sucking on candy might cause you to swallow air as well.
- Over-the-counter gas relief medicines such as Beano can be used to avoid gas symptoms. You either take a tablet or add Beano drops to food before consumption. Beano helps reduce gas caused by foods that contain fructose, raffinose and sorbitol. Lactaid is an over-the-counter medication that is useful for treating gas caused by lactose. This is also taken before eating foods such as milk, cheese and yogurt.
- Gas might happen during pregnancy because you are constipated. This is caused by the weight the uterus puts on the intestines and the slow movement of the gastrointestinal tract. Consider taking a stool softener to help the bowels pass impacted waste.
- Exercise to increase digestive tract functioning and to reduce stress.Taking a walk or doing a mild yoga routine will help to increase blood flow and decrease excess weight that may be contributing to excess gas formation. See a doctor before beginning any exercise program.
