Farting, or flatulence, is the release of gas from the digestive system through the rectum. It’s a natural and regular function of the body. Most people pass gas 14 to 25 times a day.

When Farting Becomes Excessive. If you pass gas more than 25 times a day, especially along with other symptoms, it may be considered excessive flatulence. While often harmless, it can indicate digestive issues that require attention.

Common Causes of Excessive Gas. Dietary Triggers: Eating high-fiber foods such as beans, lentils, broccoli, and onions; consuming carbonated drinks; sugar alcohols like sorbitol and mannitol (common in sugar-free items); lactose if you’re intolerant; and fructose or high-fructose corn syrup can all increase gas production.

Swallowed Air (Aerophagia): Chewing gum, eating too quickly, drinking through straws, talking while eating, and smoking can cause you to swallow more air, leading to gas.

Food Intolerances: Lactose intolerance, gluten intolerance (including celiac disease or sensitivity), and sensitivity to FODMAPs (a group of fermentable carbs) often result in gas and bloating.

Digestive Disorders: Conditions such as IBS (irritable bowel syndrome), SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth), GERD (acid reflux), pancreatic insufficiency, and celiac disease can all contribute to excessive gas.

Medications: Antibiotics can disrupt gut bacteria; laxatives and fiber supplements may cause gas; metformin, a common diabetes medication, is also known to increase flatulence.

When to See a Doctor
You should consult a healthcare provider if you experience excessive gas along with bloating, abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, weight loss, blood in your stool, fatigue, loss of appetite, or recent dietary changes that worsen symptoms.

How to Reduce Gas
Keep a food diary to identify which foods trigger your symptoms. Try a low-FODMAP diet, especially if you have IBS. Eat slowly and chew thoroughly to reduce air intake. Consider using probiotics to support gut health. Temporarily avoid gas-producing foods. Exercise regularly to promote digestion. Use digestive enzymes or lactase supplements if you have specific intolerances.

Diagnostic Tests Doctors May Use
Your doctor may recommend a hydrogen breath test (to detect lactose intolerance or SIBO), a celiac disease blood panel, stool tests for infections or fat malabsorption, or an endoscopy or colonoscopy if symptoms are severe or persistent.