Causes of flatulence in women
Passing gas is normal and happens a lot, probably between 14 and 23 times throughout the day, often without attracting much attention; For most people, it's not a big deal. But what if it's a health issue?
What causes gas?
Gas can build up in your digestive system just because you swallow air while drinking, eating, or even laughing. But some foods also produce excess gas, and in these cases the gas lasts longer.
Another cause of gas buildup in the abdomen is slow bowel movement, because the longer food remains inside the stomach, the gas-producing bacteria build up, causing abdominal discomfort.
Women also experience more gas as they age due to a slower metabolism and slower movement of food through the colon. Even the intestinal tract naturally slows down over time.
Excess gas buildup is also likely to be a bigger problem if you have medical conditions such as diabetes, scleroderma, hypothyroidism, bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine, irritable bowel syndrome, diverticulosis, or if you have a sedentary lifestyle, says Dr. Mine.
How to treat gas buildup:
1- Doing sports
The more active you are, the more frequently you relieve gas from the intestinal tract. Focus on abdominal strengthening exercises to help keep your digestive system moving.
2- Cut back on vegetables
Cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, and asparagus produce more gas than other vegetables. (But it's also nutritious, so don't completely avoid it!)
3- Avoid dairy products
If you are lactose intolerant, reduce or avoid dairy products.
4- Avoid constipation
It is normal to have a bowel movement from three times a day to once every two days. This helps reduce the buildup of gas-producing bacteria. Hydration and exercise can help keep things moving in this department.
5. Limit soft drinks, fermented foods, and drinks containing high fructose corn syrup; These products add more gas or feed the bacteria in the digestive system.
