It is natural for air to be produced as part of the digestion process of the food we eat. But when it is excessive and does not go away and accumulates in the stomach, it causes severe heartburn, stomach pain, and discomfort. The main causes are:
Wrong eating habits: When you eat quickly while talking and swallowing without chewing properly, air is swallowed along with the food (Aerophagia). This later turns into gas.
Certain foods: Tuberculosis (potatoes, yams), nuts, peas, cabbage, and onions take longer to digest. When these are broken down by bacteria in the colon, more gas is produced.
Carbonated drinks and artificial sweeteners: When you drink soft drinks like soda and cola, a large amount of carbon dioxide gas reaches the stomach. Also, chewing gum and drinking water through a straw can increase gas.
Indigestion and Constipation: When intestinal motility slows down and constipation occurs, food begins to ferment in the intestines. This can cause strong odorous gas.
Lactose Intolerance (Milk Allergy): Some people have a reduced ability to digest the ‘lactose’ component in milk and milk products. Such people will experience severe diarrhea and gas if they consume milk, tea, and ice cream.
