Belching (burping) and flatulence (farting) are essential human functions that all of us can experience, but it can be a problem for a person when they are exhibiting these behaviors more frequently than they desire. Bloating, which is a sensation of abdominal fullness, is commonly connected to many excess belching and flatulence issues.

People can take specific steps to help reduce their burping and farting. The Mayo Clinic notes that most belching is caused by swallowing excess air, and people may swallow excess air when they eat or drink too fast, talk while they eat, chew gum, suck on hard candy, drink carbonated beverages, or smoke.

Some people suffer from aerophagia, which involves swallowing air as a nervous habit, and acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can also cause excessive belching because of increased swallowing. When chronic belching is related to inflammation of the stomach lining (gastritis) or an infection with Helicobacter pylori, it is often accompanied by other symptoms, such as heartburn or abdominal pain.

The Mayo Clinic states that a person can reduce the need to belch by:

  • Eating and drinking slowly
  • Avoiding carbonated drinks and beer
  • Skipping gum and hard candy
  • Not smoking
  • Checking dentures
  • Getting moving
  • Treating heartburn

Flatulence is the result of gas buildup in the intestines, which the Mayo Clinic notes could be caused by food residue in the colon. It could also be the result of a change in the bacteria in the small intestine or poor absorption of carbohydrates.

Constipation can also be a common source of gas issues because food has longer to ferment the longer it remains in your colon. A digestive disorder, such as lactose or fructose intolerance or celiac disease, could also be a cause of gas problems.

Some ways to prevent flatulence recommended by the Mayo Clinic include:

  • Eliminating certain foods
  • Reading labels
  • Eating fewer fatty foods
  • Cutting back on high-fiber foods
  • Trying over-the-counter remedies

The Mayo Clinic states that many excess belching or flatulence issues are resolved on their own with simple changes, but people should consult their physicians when symptoms do not improve with changes. You should see a doctor if you experience diarrhea, persistent or severe abdominal pain, bloody stools, changes in the color or frequency of stools, unintended weight loss, chest discomfort, or loss of appetite.

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