Know your body: Why do we fart?
Passing gas or farting is a natural and unavoidable bodily function. But just how much gas is too much? Should you be worried if you’re feeling extra gassy?
We spoke to Dr Narendra Singhla, Lead Consultant – Internal Medicine at CK Birla Hospital, Delhi, to get the facts straight.
Why do we fart?
Farting happens because of the digestive process. When we eat, our bodies break down food into nutrients, but some foods aren’t fully digested in the small intestine. These undigested particles pass into the large intestine, where gut bacteria ferment them, releasing gas.
According to Dr Singhla, this process produces a mix of gases, including nitrogen, oxygen, carbon dioxide, hydrogen, and even methane. Swallowed air from eating too fast or drinking carbonated beverages can also contribute to excess gas buildup.
Is it normal to fart 10–20 times a day?
The frequency of flatulence varies from person to person, but research suggests that:
✅ A study published in the Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology found that the average person farts 10-20 times per day.
✅ Another study in the European Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology reported that people on high-fibre diets pass gas even more frequently—up to 25-30 times daily.
So, if you’re within this range, you’re perfectly normal!
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An imbalance of gut bacteria can affect gas production (file)
What affects how often you fart?
According to Dr Singhla, several factors influence flatulence:
1. Diet
Certain foods are gas-producing culprits, including:
- High-fibre foods (beans, lentils, broccoli, cabbage, whole grains)
- Dairy products (especially for lactose-intolerant individuals)
- Carbonated drinks (soda, sparkling water, beer)
- Sugary and processed foods
2. Eating habits
- Eating too quickly or talking while eating increases swallowed air, leading to more gas.
- Drinking with a straw or chewing gum can also introduce excess air into your digestive system.
3. Gut health
An imbalance of gut bacteria can affect gas production. Conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), small intestine bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), or celiac disease can increase flatulence.
4. Age
As we age, our digestive systems become less efficient, which can lead to more gas formation.
5. Underlying health issues
Excessive flatulence can sometimes indicate an underlying medical condition, such as gastroparesis, Crohn’s disease, or food intolerances.
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When should you see a doctor?
If your flatulence is accompanied by abdominal pain, diarrhoea, bloating, weight loss, or changes in stool consistency, consult a doctor. Persistent or excessive gas could signal an underlying health condition that needs medical attention. And remember—everyone farts, so don’t stress too much about it!
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
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