Excessive Gas [posted 7/17/98]
Question: For 4 weeks I have been troubled with extreme and excessive flatulence (all day and all night). My stomach bloats after eating. Simethicone products are not helping. There is no diarrhea or constipation or belching. Stools are not abnormal in color. I have no history of intestinal disorder, gall bladder or pancreas trouble.

Answer: First, cut out all milk products. Lactose intolerance is very common and occasionally is only seen in later ages. Second, you possibly have guardia lamblia-a one celled parasite which is common around children or if you are exposed to well water (stream water from camping etc.). This would require antibiotics. So, cut out the dairy products. If you're not better check with your doctor.

Increased Flatulus
Question: The amount of flatus that I pass has increased significantly. I have no health problems and no other symptoms. My diet has remained unchanged. Any reasons for this?

Answer: Flatus is one of those things that we don't do a good job on. However, high fiber will increase the amount of gas. So will different foods-beans etc. Cut the fiber and see if it improves.

General Information
Question: What causes human beings to have gas from the foods we eat?

Answer: Bacteria in your intestinal tract as well as the digestive process itself. You will note that the most gas comes from vegetables. Unfortunately, there are few medical "fixes" for this problem.
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