Is passing gas normal?

Yes. Passing gas as many as 14-21 times a day is considered normal. You do not need any treatment for that. Some people pass gas more frequently than others. Gas or flatulence is considered abnormal when it is accompanied by other symptoms such as abdominal colic, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, etc. You must seek medical care if you have chronic flatulence accompanied by other symptoms.

What foods to avoid in case of flatulence?

If you suffer from excess gas, you must avoid drinking aerated beverages and foods that contain carbohydrates and starch. Avoid carbonated drinks such as aerated water, soda, colas, etc. as these increase the flatulence. Do not consume milk and milk products if you suffer from lactose intolerance. Instead, opt for vegan sources of milk such as soy milk or almond milk. Reduce intake of foods that are known for excess gas formation such as broccoli, beans, cabbage, lentils, etc. You must also ensure not to eat heavy meals at one go. It is better to split the meals into smaller portions and eat frequently throughout the day. Also, limit your alcohol intake. Chewing gum too frequently also predisposes you to increased flatulence. So, if you suffer from frequent gas, it is better to avoid chewing gum.

Do OTC medicines provide instant relief from gas?

Yes, over-the-counter preparations containing simethicone may provide immediate relief from symptoms of gas and bloating. These preparations contain soda-bicarbonate which is an antacid and works by neutralizing the stomach acid. You must however take these otc medications exactly as instructed on the packaging and not exceed the recommended dosages as that may cause harm.

What are some home remedies for gas?

If you have excessive gas, simply passing it may help you feel relaxed and avoid bloating. You may also try passing motions as it may empty your bowel and make some room. You may try lying flat on your stomach or gently massage the abdomen in small circular motions to help ease your symptoms. Performing simple exercises such as pawanmuktasana or going for a brisk walk can also help relieve gas. Certain foods like asafoetida pills, ginger candies, cumin powder, and carrom seeds can also be taken to help relieve gas and indigestion.

Bloating

Written By Dr. Anuj SainiMMST, MBBS

Reviewed By Dr. Sachin Gupta

MD Pharmacology, MBBS

Last updated on: 24 Feb 2026 | 11:22 AM (IST)

Overview

A lot of people complain about gas trouble but don't take it seriously because they think it is embarrassing. But there's a lot you need to know about this common digestive physiological process. Gas is produced as a by-product of the normal digestion process which occurs in the body. Excess gas escapes either through the intestine in the form of a ‘flatus’ (farting/flatulence) or through the windpipe in the form of a ‘belch’ (belching/burping). In some cases, it may also be retained in the digestive tract and lead to abnormal bloating.

Usually, intestinal gas causes no medical problems and is a normal occurrence. But occasionally, it can be a symptom of an underlying medical condition such as irritable bowel syndrome, malabsorption syndrome, Crohn’s disease, inflammatory bowel syndrome, intestinal obstruction, etc.

An excess gas formation can be treated with over-the-counter (OTC) medications and certain prescription drugs that help reduce bloating and improve digestion. Lifestyle changes in the form of a healthy diet and mild exercise are also known to reduce the symptoms.

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