STRESS & INTESTINAL GAS

via Macomb, Co. & GR MI Chapters

Stress is the cause of one of the most common gastrointestinal complaints. Flatulence occurs in people during stressful situations. While under stress, breathing is deeper and one sighs more, encouraging a greater than normal intake of air. Dr. Richter, a gastroenterologist at Massachusetts General Hospital, states that the average person belches about 14 times a day (GI Series Newsletter, Vol. 1, No.4) The person with a flatulence problem does not belch more often. However, they may experience the sensation of needing to belch and get little relief from doing so. Here are some ways to relieve gas.

1. Avoid heavy fatty meals, especially during stressful situations.

2. Reduce the quantity of food consumed at one sitting. Eat small low-fat meals about every three hours.

3. Avoid drinking beverages out of cans or bottles. Avoid drinking through a

straw.

4. Avoid foods and beverages you personally cannot tolerate.

5. Avoid any practice that causes intake of air, such as chewing gum, smoking, blended foods that contain a lot of air. (Ed’s note: sometimes it can also be a malted, or shake that has been blended)

6. Drink at least 8 glasses of water a day.

7. With the advice of your doctor and ET Nurse, experiment with food in your diet to achieve adequate bowel regularity.

8. Avoid eating too many fiber foods in one meal. Gradually add fiber foods in your diet to prevent excessive intestinal gas.

9. Avoid skipping meals, an empty bowel encourages small and gassy stool. Poor digestion can often exaggerate the symptoms associated with flatulence. Digestion enzymes aid in food assimilation and chemical digestion. Enzyme supplements should always be taken immediately before or after eating. Food coats the stomach and helps prevent gastric juices and acids from destroying the enzyme action.

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