The formation of gas in the intestine, called flatulence, is a natural process that occurs during digestion and involves the action of intestinal bacteria.
The number of people suffering from gas is staggering. The worst thing is that the vast majority, having had this problem for a long time, believe that this suffering is normal, answering: “But I’ve always been like this!”. Sorry, this is not normal and can be corrected, yes!
Digestion
The formation of gas in the intestine, called flatulence, is a natural process that occurs during digestion and involves the action of intestinal bacteria. After eating food, our digestive system breaks down these foods into absorbable nutrients. During this process, especially in the large intestine, the bacteria that make up the intestinal microbiota ferment non-digestible components, such as fiber and some sugars. This fermentation causes the production of gases, such as carbon dioxide, methane and hydrogen, which are released during digestion. Gut bacteria play a crucial role as different types of microorganisms have different fermentation capabilities.
The composition of the diet and the presence of foods rich in fiber can increase the activity of these bacteria, leading to increased gas production. Although the presence of gas is normal and part of the body’s healthy functioning, excessive accumulation can cause discomfort, bloating and abdominal pain.
Activated carbon
Activated carbon, famous for its adsorbent properties, is well known for alleviating these symptoms. Activated carbon is made from organic raw materials such as wood or coconut shells, which are treated to create a porous structure. This porosity allows the charcoal to act like a magnet, binding to gases and toxins present in the digestive tract, facilitating their elimination. It is important to use activated charcoal with caution, as it can also absorb medications and nutrients, affecting the effectiveness of other treatments.
Plants that are treatments
Plants can also help, in fact there are plants known for their digestive and carminative properties, which help reduce the formation and accumulation of gas.
Peppermint
THE Peppermint (Mentha piperita) is one of them, which contains menthol and has antispasmodic properties. Menthol works by relaxing the intestinal muscles, promoting the passage of gas and reducing the sensation of bloating. Additionally, it is a natural digestive that can help relieve stomach upset.
Chamomile
Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) is rich in flavonoids and essential oils, which have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects. These compounds help relax the muscles of the digestive tract, promoting smoother digestion and relieving built-up gas.
Ginger
Ginger (Zingiber officinale) contains gingerol, a compound with anti-inflammatory and carminative properties that help expel gases and reduce the formation of new ones. Ginger substantially accelerates intestinal transit and improves digestion, providing rapid relief from discomfort caused by gas.
Fennel
And Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) known for its carminative properties, being rich in anethole, which relieves flatulence and facilitates digestion. Anethole works by relaxing the intestinal muscles, promoting the elimination of gas.
Anise
Last but not least, fennel (Pimpinella anisum) also contains anethole and other essential oils that help relieve bloating and pain associated with gas. Fennel can also stimulate the secretion of digestive enzymes, promoting more efficient digestion.
All these plants can be used in various ways, for example in herbal teas, dry extracts or essential oils. Incorporating these options into your diet or as a form of treatment can offer significant relief to those who suffer from excessive intestinal gas.
Probiotics
The famous probiotics are also essential as they are beneficial microorganisms that can contribute to intestinal health and have gained importance in the treatment of various digestive conditions such as flatulence. These microorganisms, which include several species of bacteria and yeast, help balance the intestinal microbiota and promote healthy digestion. Its action is particularly relevant for people suffering from excess gas, as it can act in several ways.
Probiotics help restore and maintain a healthy balance between the different species of bacteria in the gut. An imbalance, called dysbiosis, can lead to the overgrowth of bacteria that produce large amounts of gas. Introducing probiotics can help suppress the growth of these unwanted bacteria and promote the multiplication of beneficial ones that play a positive role in digestion.
Fermentation
They can even change the fermentation profile of some foods. Through their metabolism, they can ferment them more efficiently, resulting in less gas production. For example, some probiotic strains can ferment prebiotic fibers more efficiently, reducing gas production by the microbiota.
Furthermore, during the fermentation of fiber by probiotics, short-chain fatty acids, such as butyrate, propionate and acetate, are produced. These compounds not only provide energy to colon cells, but also help regulate intestinal motility and intestinal mucosal health, which can contribute to more efficient digestion and less gas formation.
Some probiotics have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract. Inflammation can affect intestinal motility and the body’s ability to digest food, leading to increased gas production. By reducing inflammation, probiotics can improve the normal functioning of the digestive system.
They also have a role in modulating the intestinal immune system. A balanced immune system can contribute to overall gut health and help prevent digestive disorders, which often manifest as intestinal gas. The most common strains of probiotics, such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, are often used in probiotic supplements and yogurts.
Incorporating these microorganisms into your diet can help provide relief to those who experience discomfort due to gas buildup.
It is important to note that the response to probiotics can vary from person to person. Consulting with a healthcare professional can help you identify the most suitable strains – as there is a type of probiotic indicated for each problem – and verify the best way to introduce them into your routine, increasing your chances of success in relieving the symptoms associated with flatulence . Additionally, combining probiotics with a balanced, fiber-rich diet can increase gut health benefits.
No more suffering and embarrassment! I wish you a great treatment!
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
