DEAR DR. GOTT:
I have been having a problem with flatulence. I know fried foods and fish cause the problem but sometimes it’s hard to pinpoint what really gives me so much gas.
I want to avoid Bean-O or other medications to prevent the problem. Please advise me what I can do.
DEAR READER:
Millions of bacteria grow within the colon and certain foods cause those bacteria to thrive. In fact, as much as 90% of intestinal gas is formed by bacteria that feed on certain sugars and carbohydrates.
You apparently have made the connection between diet and gas. Other than fried foods, wheat products, Brussels sprouts, legumes, cabbage, broccoli, asparagus, dairy products, potatoes, carbonated beverages and carrots all play a role. It would be impossible to eliminate everything from your diet, and each individual is different when it comes to gas production. If you consume lots of carbonated beverages, milk products or potatoes, for example, cut back. Moderation might be all that is necessary. It can be an interesting trial-and-error period for you to determining the true culprit(s) for your flatulence.
To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report “Digestive Gas”. Other readers who would like a copy should send a self-addressed, stamped, number 10 envelope and $2 to Newsletter, PO Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title.
About Dr. Gott