Eating foods that cause gas

Certain high-fiber foods may cause gas, including:

Beans and peas, called legumes.

Fruits.

Vegetables.

Whole grains.

While high-fiber foods increase gas production, fiber is essential for keeping your digestive tract in good working order. It also helps regulate blood sugar and cholesterol levels.

Other dietary factors

Other dietary factors that can contribute to increased gas in the digestive system include:

Carbonated beverages, such as soda and beer, increase stomach gas.

Eating habits, such as eating too quickly, drinking through a straw, chewing gum, sucking on candies or talking while chewing results in swallowing more air.

Fiber supplements containing psyllium, such as Metamucil, may increase colon gas.

Sugar substitutes, or artificial sweeteners, such as sorbitol, mannitol and xylitol, found in some sugar-free foods and beverages may cause excess colon gas.

Medical conditions

Medical conditions that may increase intestinal gas, bloating or gas pain include:

Intestinal conditions. Excess gas is often a symptom of ongoing intestinal conditions, such as celiac disease, irritable bowel syndrome or gastroparesis.

Small bowel bacterial overgrowth. An increase or change in the bacteria in the small intestine can cause excess gas, diarrhea and weight loss.

Food intolerances. Gas or bloating may happen if your digestive system can't break down and absorb certain foods. Examples include the sugar in dairy products, called lactose, or proteins, such as gluten in wheat and other grains.

Constipation. Constipation may make it difficult to pass gas.