Flatulence is typified by the union of small microorganisms that turn into intestinal gas. The most common causes are due to dietary habits. Eating quickly or talking while eating causes excessive accumulation of wind which leads to bloating.
Switch to a diet high in fibre
If you are thinking of switching to a high-fibre diet you mustn't forget that your stomach could initially be intolerant of wholegrain foods. The transition should be gradual in order to allow the digestive tract to get used to the new dietary regime. It is also essential to hydrate properly, drinking, if possible, a litre and a half of water a day. Fibre needs liquid in order to be absorbed. Once the body is used to the new diet, flatulence will no longer be a problem.
Yeast, onions, cabbages & Co.
Freshly-baked cakes not only smell good, they taste good. But be careful: hot croissants or pastries can cause bloating. So, it's best to go without. Raw onions go perfectly with salads or kebabs but are difficult to digest and you should eat less or add flavour with a few drops of lemon juice.
Pulses like lentils, peas or beans and cabbage are healthy but we are all familiar with their effects. You should leave pulses to soak overnight in water before cooking them in order to reduce their levels of indigestible carbohydrates. Cabbage is made digestible by seasoning with cumin, fennel seeds or a little bit of grated ginger. Even foods high in fat and sugar can cause flatulence and could be substituted with fresh fruit and cooked vegetables.
In addition to this, avoid carbonated drinks and choose still water or mint or fennel tea or herbal teas made from anise, cumin and ginger. Buttermilk, soured milk, kefir, and in particular yoghurt, are ideal for combating bloating because the lactobacilli contained in these foods relieve intestinal bloating and re-establish the balance in intestinal flora if used regularly.
What to do in case of an emergency
If flatulence persists, use a hot water bottle or a warming pad. Massage the stomach in a clockwise direction with a couple of drops of cumin oil, which aids relaxation. A short walk after meals also promotes digestion and reduces bloating. Avoid wearing clothes that are too tight, especially if you have to sit down or stand up for long periods of time.
If, in despite of trying these tips, flatulence returns after a few days, you need to go and see a doctor to make sure you are not suffering from any serious illnesses such as intestinal disorders, peritonitis, inflammation of the pancreas, liver disorders and heart deficiency. Chronic flatulence can also be a symptom of dietary intolerance or irritable bowels. Excessive strain on the gut can result in permanent damage.