OMG! WHY AM I SO GASSY?

Excessive gas can be frustrating, painful, and downright embarrassing!  There are a number of reasons we experience gas….and sometimes, even healthy foods like kale, broccoli, and cabbage are the instigators!  Below are 4 of the reasons we might experience tummy troubles, and tools to get rid of the gurgle…..

CHANNEL YOUR INNER BOVINE:  My first rule of thumb when coaching a client who has issues with gas, pain, or bloating is to sit down while eating, and chew slowly / thoroughly.  Chewing is the first step of the digestive process.  (Think of a cow chewing its’ cud, mouth closed of course!) If we are in a hurry to nosh, we hinder digestion and the body’s ability to absorb nutrients.  

ASSISTANCE MIGHT BE NEEDED:  As we get older, and as stress increases, our digestive enzymes decrease.  Whole food-based digestive enzymes are a wonderful aid for tummy troubles.  I also encourage clients to eat fermented vegetables with their meals.  Fermented foods are pre-digested powerhouses that are digestive aids and full of beneficial bacteria that enhance our gut health.  Sometimes, an imbalance of gut bacteria is to blame for excessive gas, and fermented foods are rock stars in this arena.  Even with the help of enzymes, some of my clients still need to lightly cook all veggies before eating.  

BOLSTER THE BACTERIA:  I also suggest that clients take probiotics daily.  Maintaining a healthy balance of gut bacteria is so important for digestive health and overall wellness.  Our gut health can become compromised so easily….stress, antibiotics, over the counter meds, and sugary and processed foods all contribute to poor gut health.  It’s important to replenish the good bacteria daily.  

BE A FOOD DETECTIVE:  Ongoing, excessive gas is definitely the body’s way of telling us that something’s not right.  We might have an undetected food allergy or sensitivity that is causing inflammation in the gut.  Each time we eat the offending food, we are adding fuel to the fire.  Getting tested for food allergies can be so revealing and helpful!  

Before grabbing the GasX, try following these tips and see if things don’t quiet down!  Gas alone is not really problematic.  Many foods that we eat do produce gas, and it just needs to be released!  If excessive, PAINFUL gas persists, and is accompanied by bloating, a doctor visit is a good idea to rule out infections or other issues.