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Natural, but not necessarily nice
Quit snickering, we all pass gas. And most people pass it at least 14 times a day -- especially during bowel movements. So what causes gas? Swallowing air while drinking, drinking carbonated beverages, gulping down air with your food, drinking milk if you're lactose intolerant, digesting certain foods (beans, bran, cabbage), chewing gum, and wearing dentures. And even that's OK, until the gas gets trapped and then released in a display that has become the pinnacle of adolescent humor (scientifically: flatulence; colloquially: never mind). But flatulence can also be a sign of more serious gastrointestinal disorders. If it becomes troubling, see your physician.
The good news is that there are over-the-counter remedies that are safe and effective.
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Clearing the Air
- Gas relief medications work in different degrees for different people.
- Gas relief drugs are often marketed in combination with such over-the-counter products as antacids.
- Safe and effective, they shouldn't be taken with other drugs without consulting a physician.
- The substance under the brand name Beano (alpha-galactosidase enzyme) is classified as a dietary supplement.
Food Effects
If you're prone to gas attacks, it is wise to avoid certain foods known as "gassers" or flatuogenics. You should particularly avoid the following:
- Bagels
- Beans
- Bran
- Broccoli
- Brussel sprouts
- Cabbage
- Cauliflower
- Milk (if you're lactose intolerant)
- Onions
Foods that are moderate "gassers" include the following:
- Apples
- Apricots
- Bananas
- Breads and pastries
- Carrots
- Celery
- Citrus fruits
- Eggplant
- Lettuce
- Prune juice
- Radishes
- Raisins
Doctor Knows Best
Remember, there is great convenience and safety in buying gas relief medications over-the-counter, but if excess or prolonged gas distress, pain, or cramping become a problem, it's best to contact your doctor.
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Antiflatulence agents
Simethicone acts as a "defoaming agent" by lowering the surface tension of small gas bubbles in the stomach and intestines, allowing the bubbles to combine and break free more easily so that the gas within can be expelled. It won't prevent gas from forming, but it may help relieve the symptoms.
Alpha-galactosidase is an enzyme derived from a mold that converts indigestible sugars into ones your body can break down. Unlike simethicone, this supplement may help prevent gas from forming when you eat certain gas-producing foods.
| Antiflatulence Agents | Ingredient | Description |
|---|
| Simethicone | ? | Though approved as safe and effective by the FDA, many controlled studies have failed to show its efficacy. However, many patients still report it useful for relieving symptoms of bloating, pressure, and fullness. | | Enzymatic Agents | Ingredient | Description |
|---|
| Alpha-galactosidase | ? | While effective in reducing flatulence when used before eating gas-producing foods, its safety has been questioned. Diabetics and those with galactosemia should avoid this product. |
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FDA-Approved Uses
Gas relief aids
- Alleviate bloating, pressure, fullness, and the stuffed feeling commonly referred to as gas.
Tips on Treatments- Simethicone helps alleviate the symptoms of gas, although it does not prevent gas from forming. In theory, it makes it easier for excess gas to be removed from the digestive system.
- Alpha-galactosidase is an enzyme that helps break down carbohydrates that contribute to gas formation. It can prevent excess gas from forming, thereby acting as a preventive measure, but it will not help if you already have intestinal gas.
Recommended Dosage
| Gas Relief Agents | | Drug | Adults & Children Over Age 12 | Max. Daily | Children Ages 6 to 12 | Max. Daily | Children Under Age 6 | Max. Daily |
|---|
| Simethicone | 40 to 125 mg after meals and before sleeping | 500 mg | 40 mg after meals and before sleeping | 160 mg | Refer to package or consult a physician | | Alpha-Galactosidase | 5 to 8 drops on food or
2 to 3 tablets with food | | Refer to package or consult a physician | | Refer to package or consult a physician |
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Warnings
Alpha-Galactosidase
Consult a physician before using or do not use if you have:
Or if you are taking:
Common Side Effects
Infrequent to Rare Side Effects
Effects of Overdose
What to Do in Case of Overdose
- It is unlikely that an overdose of this medication will cause life-threatening symptoms. If you are still concerned, please seek the advice of your health professional.
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Websites, Organizations & Manufacturers
Sources & Further Reading
Government Sources
- 1. Food & Drug Administration.Federal Register 6/4/74.
- 2. Food & Drug Administration.Federal Register 3/5/96.
Books
- 1. Covington, TR et al. Handbook of Nonprescription Drugs, Eleventh Ed. American Pharmaceutical Assoc. Washington, DC 1996.
- 2. Kastrup EK et al. Drug Facts and Comparisons. Facts and Comparisons.
- 3. Inlander, CB and Slamans, S.The Over-the-Counter Doctor. Cader Books. New York, NY 1997.
Find more books on health and wellness at  barnesandnoble.com.
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