Farting

  Can anyone tell me, what causes a person to fart?
Dear Monika,
Farting implies increased flatulence and the production of gas by the intestine. Flatulence is largely the result of dietary intake and the metabolic activity of the colonic bacterial flora. Passage of flatus up to 25 times per day is normal, but frequent flatulence may indicate an underlying disorder of intestinal motility or carbohydrate malabsorption. Dietary restriction is more likely to be effective than anti-flatulent agents such as simethicone. Review your diet to see if any particular foods correlate with increased intestinal gas. It is important to rule out lactose intolerance. If you have a problem with increased flatus, try limiting your dairy product intake or taking Lactaid tablets prior to taking in dairy products. Lactaid milk is also available. I hope you find this information helpful.
This response is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice or consultation. Always check with your personal physician when you have a question pertaining to your health.
If you wish to be seen at our institution please call 1-800-653-6568, our Referring Physicians' Office and make an appointment to see Dr. Muszkat, one of our experts in Gastroenterology.
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*Keywords: flatulence, colonic bacteria, carbohydrate malabsorption, lactose intolerance, lactaid

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