If You’re Passing Gas More Than 25 Times a Day
What Is Flatulence?
Flatulence, commonly known as farting, is the release of gas from the digestive tract through the rectum. It’s a normal bodily process that happens to everyone.
On average, most people pass gas about 14 to 25 times per day.
When Farting Becomes Excessive
If you’re experiencing gas more than 25 times daily, especially when it’s accompanied by other symptoms, it may be considered excessive flatulence. While this is often harmless, it can sometimes point to an underlying digestive issue that deserves attention.
⚠️ Common Reasons for Excessive Gas
1. Diet-Related Causes
Certain foods naturally produce more gas during digestion, including:
High-fiber foods like beans, lentils, broccoli, cabbage, and onions
Fizzy or carbonated beverages
Sugar alcohols such as sorbitol and mannitol found in sugar-free products
Dairy products if you’re lactose intolerant
Foods high in fructose or high-fructose corn syrup
2. Swallowing Excess Air (Aerophagia)
You may be taking in extra air if you:
Chew gum frequently
Eat too quickly
Drink using straws
Talk while eating
Smoke
3. Food Sensitivities or Intolerances
Gas can increase if your body struggles to digest certain substances, such as:
Lactose
Gluten (in celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity)
FODMAPs, which are fermentable carbohydrates that often trigger bloating and gas
4. Digestive Conditions
Several gastrointestinal disorders can cause increased gas, including:
IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome): Often causes bloating, cramps, and excess gas
SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth): Bacteria ferment food too early, producing gas
Celiac disease
GERD: May increase gas due to frequent swallowing
Pancreatic insufficiency: Poor enzyme production leads to incomplete digestion and fermentation
5. Medications
Some medications are known to increase gas, such as:
Antibiotics, which can disrupt gut bacteria
Laxatives
Metformin, a common diabetes drug
Fiber supplements
🩺 When You Should See a Doctor
Consult a healthcare professional if frequent gas is accompanied by:
Persistent bloating or stomach pain
Ongoing diarrhea or constipation
Unintentional weight loss
Blood in the stool
Fatigue
Noticeable changes in appetite
Symptoms that worsen after dietary changes
✅ Ways to Reduce Excessive Gas
Track what you eat: A food diary can help identify triggers
Try a low-FODMAP diet: Often helpful for people with IBS
Slow down when eating and chew thoroughly
Use probiotics: They may help restore balance to gut bacteria
Temporarily avoid known gas-producing foods
Exercise regularly: Physical activity helps move gas through the digestive system
Consider digestive enzymes or lactase supplements if needed
🧪 Tests a Doctor May Suggest
To pinpoint the cause, your doctor might recommend:
Hydrogen breath tests for lactose intolerance or SIBO
Blood tests for celiac disease
Stool tests to check for infections or fat malabsorption
Endoscopy or colonoscopy in more serious or long-lasting cases
Passing gas is normal, but persistent or uncomfortable symptoms don’t have to be ignored. Paying attention to patterns and seeking medical advice when needed can make a big difference in digestive comfort and overall health.
