Although farting is considered impolite, it is a normal physiological phenomenon and a sign of the gastrointestinal tract functioning properly. Farting is caused by swallowed air or the action of normal gut flora. So, which is healthier: someone who farts frequently or someone who never farts?
Between someone who farts often and someone who never farts, who is healthier?
There are many factors that cause farting in the human body. For example, eating too many gas-producing foods can lead to excessive gas in the intestines, resulting in increased farting and larger stool volume. Additionally, people with irritable bowel syndrome may experience more farting, along with bloating and abdominal pain. This is largely related to the strength of one's digestive function. Poor digestion can speed up bacterial fermentation in the gut, producing large amounts of gas and leading to farting. Under normal circumstances, people fart about 5 to 10 times a day. Eating fried foods and meat can increase farting frequency and make the gas smellier, which is a normal physiological phenomenon that helps maintain health. However, never farting can negatively affect one's health, and such individuals should seek medical attention to check their gastrointestinal function.
Why do people fart so much?
1. Eating too quickly
Eating in a hurry or talking while eating allows air to enter the gastrointestinal tract along with food. Air consists of various gases, and swallowing too much air leads to farting. Additionally, consuming too much dairy can increase farting because, as people age, the amount of lactase in the body decreases, leading to more gas production.
2. Bacterial imbalance
Bacteria ferment food in the colon. If there is an overgrowth of bacteria in the colon that moves into the small intestine, food comes into contact with bacteria before being digested, generating gas. Furthermore, gastrointestinal infections or changes in gut flora can cause bacterial imbalance, increasing gas production.
3. Hormonal changes
Hormonal imbalances or entering menopause can reduce gastrointestinal activity, leading to increased gas production. Additionally, people with digestive issues or autoimmune diseases may be sensitive to gluten, and consuming too much gluten can increase gas.
Helpful Tip
For those who fart frequently, it’s best to eat smaller, more frequent meals and chew food slowly. Avoid gas-producing foods and reduce starch intake. Instead, eat more leafy greens, fruits, and protein-rich foods to ensure balanced nutrition. Consider supplementing with probiotics to improve the gut flora environment.
