Question: I recently switched to a mostly vegetarian diet and have lost a lot of weight, as a result. But I seem to have more gas and bloating than before. Is there anything I can do about it?
Dr. Hibberd's answer:
In surveys, 20 percent of the population feels they have excess gas problems. Gas production is most often related to swallowed air when we eat, drink, or chew gum, and it worsens when we talk while we eat or drink. Carbonated beverages and beer will also add to gas that needs to be expelled one way or the other; it is not absorbed by the bowel.
Many high-fiber foods commonly cause gas complaints and these include vegetables, fruits, grains, and fiber supplements. Food intolerance to gluten or lactose is a less common cause of gas. Many artificial additives and sweeteners may increase gas complaints. Laxative abuse and antibiotic use may also increase gas production.
Relief is available to you with alternate food choices or the use of simethicone or Mylecon, as needed. Try to add some low-fat Greek yoghurt with probiotics to see if your digestion improves.
If excess gas persists despite these simple remedies, you might consider a visit to your personal physician to check you for other conditions such as gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD), diverticulitis, inflammatory bowel disease, food sensitivity, or an allergy. Rarely gas may also be a sign of coronary artery disease affecting your heart, so you would do well to seek a brief medical consultation with your personal M.D
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