Some studies of oral administration of activated charcoal observed reductions in the amount of gas released from the colon, while other studies found no differences. These results suggest that activated charcoal may have a minor benefit in certain circumstances. It is possible that activated charcoal only beneficially reduces gas production due to some etiologies, but not others.
Excuse yourself to the restroom to pass gas. Wait to pass gas until you are alone or in a well-ventilated space. If you pass gas in public, politely say excuse me. Use your discretion. Passing gas in front of close friends or family may be appropriate and establishing these norms may help reduce the negative stigma of passing gas.
Eat slower. Rapid ingestion of food can lead to swallowing air, which can increase gas production. Focus on eating slower, perhaps by chewing food a certain number of times before swallowing. Not only will this reduce the amount of air swallowed during eating, but eating slower has been associated with decreased calorie intake. [13] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source Stop chewing gum and smoking, both of which can increase the amount of air that is unconsciously swallowed. [14] X Expert Source Muhammad Khan, MD, MPHBoard Certified Gastroenterologist Expert Interview. 24 August 2021.
Once you have identified which foods cause you problems, start eliminating them from your diet one at a time. You can also try eliminating all the foods that may cause gas, then slowly reintroduce them into your diet. [15] X Research source
Beans Fruit[20] X Expert Source Muhammad Khan, MD, MPHBoard Certified Gastroenterologist Expert Interview. 24 August 2021. Legumes, oat bran Potatoes Corn Pasta Broccoli Brussels sprouts Cauliflower Lettuce Dairy[21] X Expert Source Peter Gardner, MDBoard Certified Gastroenterologist Expert Interview. 25 August 2020. Carbonated beverages (soda and beer)[22] X Expert Source Muhammad Khan, MD, MPHBoard Certified Gastroenterologist Expert Interview. 24 August 2021. Sugar alcohols (sorbitol, mannitol, xylitol)[23] X Expert Source Muhammad Khan, MD, MPHBoard Certified Gastroenterologist Expert Interview. 24 August 2021.
Lactose intolerance is a common occurrence and results from a deficiency in the lactose-digesting enzyme, lactase. To determine if you are lactose-intolerant, follow these guidelines. [25] X Research source Some individuals with lactose intolerance find it helpful to take lactase supplements, such as Lactaid, when eating dairy products. Supplementation with lactase should help your body digest lactose and reduce gas. Other carbohydrate malabsorption conditions can result in increased gas production. [26] X Research source For example, if you frequently experience increased gas after eating foods containing high fructose corn syrup, you may have fructose malabsorption. [27] X Research source Keeping a journal, as mentioned above, will help you to identify which foods result in increased gas production.
Diarrhea Changes in the color or frequency of stools Bloody stools Severe abdominal pain Unexplained weight loss
