AskDocDoc
/
/
/
Why does gas form in stomach?
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7, 100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime. No sign-up needed.
Digestive Health
Question #12331
46 days ago
141

Why does gas form in stomach? - #12331

Karthik

I am really struggling with something and I hope someone here can help me out. Lately, I've been experiencing this awful bloating and discomfort, and I just can’t shake off the feeling that it has to do with something related to digestion. I mean, why does gas form in stomach, anyway? I noticed it got worse after I started eating more beans and lentils trying to be healthier, but it’s like no matter what I eat, I feel like a balloon! The other day, I had a really weird day at work because it felt like my stomach was making noises like crazy. So embarrassing! I can’t help but wonder, why does gas form in stomach in the first place? Is it normal? My friends say it could be a sensitivity to certain foods, but then again, I can’t pinpoint any specific food that causes it. I'm also kinda worried about whether it could be some underlying issue. I went to my doc and he said gas happens, but I’m like, really? Why does gas form in stomach at all? It’s driving me nuts, and I'm trying to figure out if there’s anything I can do to ease it. Anyone experienced something similar? What did you find out?

FREE
Question is closed
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential.
No sign-up needed.
CTA image asteriksCTA image

Doctors’ responses

Gas usually forms in the stomach as a natural part of the digestive process. When you eat or drink, you also swallow air, which contributes to the gas in your stomach. Beyond swallowing air, gas is also produced when bacteria in your gut break down the carbohydrates that your body can’t digest, like those found in beans and lentils. These foods are high in fiber, and while that’s generally great for your overall health, they can lead to increased fermentation by gut bacteria, which then produces gas. That might explain why you’ve noticed more gas since changing your diet. Your friends mentioning food sensitivity aren’t off base; certain individuals can have difficulty digesting specific foods like lactose, fructose, or gluten, which might result in excess gas. It might be useful to pay close attention to what you’re eating and keep a food diary to help identify any possible patterns or foods that might trigger symptoms. It’s normal to have gas because it is a byproduct of digestion, but if it gets excessive or very uncomfortable, there can be more specific issues like small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It’s wise to consult with a healthcare professional if you suspect an underlying condition. If you’re looking to ease the symptoms, start with dietary adjustments — try reducing high gas-producing foods, eating smaller meals more frequently, and chewing food slowly to reduce swallowed air. Over-the-counter options like simethicone or activated charcoal can help sometimes, but do use them cautiously. If the situation persists or you’re uneasy about symptoms, following up with your doc for further testing could be beneficial. It’s key to balance your diet without leaving out all the nutrient-rich foods, and a doctor or dietitian can guide you properly.

6047 answered questions
74% best answers
Accepted response

0 replies
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymously

Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.

About our doctors

Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.


Related questions