The undigested portion of food comes in contact with billions of naturally occurring intestinal bacteria. These bacteria then digest the undigested food. In the process they produce a number of gases, just as yeast produces carbon dioxide to leaven or ferment the common bread.

Thus we have gases such as methane, hydrogen and hydrogen sulfide produced during the breakdown of the undigested food particles. Hydrogen sulfide is the source of the bad odour we associate with flatulence.

Excessive flatulence could also be a symptom of irritable bowel syndrome, diverticulitis, lactose intolerance, malabsorption problems, dysbiosis (digestive problems), and other gastrointestinal disorders.

Excessive swallowing of air while eating or chewing gum can also introduce gas into the gastrointestinal tract.

Foods that may cause flatulence

Certain foods can cause more flatulence than others because of the presence of more indigestible carbohydrates. For example beans, onions, cabbage and vegetables of the potato family can cause excessive gas or intestinal spasms in some individuals.

A large number of people though are known to be affected by the intake of fried and refined foods. Processed foods, especially those that are excessively sweetened by refined sugar, may also lead to flatulence. Such foods are rich in carbohydrates and low in fiber, and are hence not digested completely.

Certain medications may also cause gas to be produced as a side-effect. Stress and food allergies too are known to cause gas.

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