how gas is formed in stomach - #17202
I am really struggling with this weird bloating and gas situation and just can’t figure out how gas is formed in stomach like, what’s going on? It started a few months ago after I switched to a more plant-based diet. At first, it was just a little discomfort after meals but now it’s like I’m a human balloon! I feel like it might be from all the fiber, you know? My doctor said something about, um, fermentation happening in the gut, but I'm not really sure how gas is formed in stomach and what that even means. Sometimes I think maybe I’m eating too fast or not chewing enough, which could lead to swallowing more air? Does that actually contribute to how gas is formed in stomach? I also hear that certain foods can really make things worse. I’ve tried cutting out beans and broccoli (which was a bummer) but still dealing with these painful pressures. Would love insights on how gas is formed in stomach and how to manage it better. I keep Googling and it’s all very confusing. Any tips from you docs out there? Thanks!!
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Doctors' responses
Gas in the stomach, or rather in the gastrointestinal tract, is fairly common and it’s often the result of two primary processes: swallowing air (aerophagia) and the digestion or fermentation of certain foods by gut bacteria. When you swallow air as you eat, especially if eating quickly or drinking carbonated beverages, it can lead to a build-up in the stomach and intestines. Secondly, when you switch to a more plant-based diet, you might intake more fibers and certain carbohydrates that aren’t completely digested in the small intestine. When these undigested carbs reach the large intestine, your gut bacteria break them down via fermentation, releasing gases like hydrogen, carbon dioxide, and sometimes methane. Foods known to cause gas include beans, lentils, cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cabbage, and whole grains. Also, some individuals might have difficulty digesting certain sugars and fibers such as lactose, fructose, or inulin, which can also lead to increased gas production upon fermentation. To manage this, consider moderating your fiber intake and introducing high-fiber foods gradually to give your gut time to adjust; chew food thoroughly to reduce air intake; and avoid drinks that can increase gas like carbonated beverages. Some over-the-counter remedies, like simethicone, can also help alleviate gas symptoms by helping to break down gas bubbles in the gut. If issues persist or cause significant discomfort, consider keeping a food diary to identify specific triggers and discuss these with your doctor, as you might have an exacerbating condition like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or other food sensitivities requiring more tailored management.
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