From the Guidelines
Gas in the digestive system is primarily caused by food intolerance and hypersensitivity, as well as carbohydrate enzyme deficiencies, such as lactase and sucrase deficiencies, and the consumption of artificial sweeteners like sugar alcohols and sorbitol. According to the most recent study published in 2023 in the journal Gastroenterology 1, common causes of bloating and distention include food intolerance and hypersensitivity, carbohydrate enzyme deficiencies, and the consumption of certain artificial sweeteners.
Some key points to consider when evaluating the causes of gas include:
- Food intolerance and hypersensitivity, such as lactose or gluten intolerance, can lead to excessive gas
- Carbohydrate enzyme deficiencies, such as lactase or sucrase deficiency, can also contribute to gas
- Artificial sweeteners like sugar alcohols and sorbitol can cause bloating and distention
- Medical conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), and constipation can also lead to excessive gas
To reduce gas, it is recommended to:
- Eat slowly and avoid swallowing air
- Avoid carbonated drinks and gas-producing foods
- Consider over-the-counter remedies like simethicone (Gas-X, Mylicon) or enzyme supplements like Beano or lactase supplements if specific food intolerances are the issue
- Regular physical activity can also help move gas through the digestive system more efficiently, as noted in the study 1.
It's also important to note that gas is a normal part of digestion, but persistent or painful gas may require medical evaluation to identify and address underlying causes, as discussed in the study 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
Use for the relief of pressure and bloating commonly referred to as gas The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
Causes of Gas
The causes of gas can be attributed to various factors, including:
- Excessive air swallowing, which can lead to eructation and abdominal distention 2, 3, 4
- Consumption of foods containing partially digested or absorbed polysaccharides, such as those found in beans, cabbage, and broccoli 2
- Impaired gas transport or transit through the gut, which can lead to the retention of gas within segments of the gut 3, 4
- Visceral hypersensitivity, a common phenomenon in functional gastrointestinal disorders, which can exacerbate the sensation of distention and contribute to other "gas-related" symptoms 3, 4
- Aerophagia, a rare disorder characterized by repetitive air swallowing and belching, which can result in abdominal distention 3, 4
- Certain dietary factors, such as a high-carbohydrate diet, which can lead to excessive gas production 4, 5
- Impaired anal evacuation, which can lead to gas retention and abdominal symptoms 5
Dietary Factors
Dietary factors can play a significant role in the development of gas-related symptoms, including:
- Consumption of foods high in fat, which can increase the perception of reflux symptoms 6
- Regular coffee and chocolate intake, which can induce gastroesophageal reflux and increase the lower esophageal exposure to acid 6
- Spicy foods, which may induce heartburn, although the exact mechanism is not known 6
- Beer and wine consumption, which can induce gastroesophageal reflux, mainly in the first hour after intake 6
- Fried foods and carbonated beverages, which may also contribute to gas-related symptoms, although the evidence is scarce 6
Other Factors
Other factors that may contribute to the development of gas-related symptoms include: