Gas is a natural byproduct of the digestion process that occurs when bacteria in the large intestine break down food. In most cases, gas is harmless and can be relieved through simple lifestyle changes or over-the-counter remedies. However, excessive gas or gas pains can be uncomfortable and maybe a sign of an underlying medical condition.

Gas pains typically occur when gas accumulates in the digestive system, causing discomfort or bloating. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including eating too quickly, consuming foods that are difficult to digest, or swallowing too much air. Other factors that can contribute to gas and gas pains include certain medical conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), lactose intolerance, and celiac disease.

To alleviate gas and gas pains, some home remedies may include:

• Taking a walk or engaging in another light exercise encourages gas to move through the digestive system.
• Apply heat to the affected area, such as a heating pad or warm towel, to help relieve discomfort.
• Trying over-the-counter remedies such as simethicone or activated charcoal.

In some cases, if gas and gas pains are persistent or severe, it may be necessary to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and treatment. In these cases, the healthcare professional may recommend lifestyle changes, medications, or further diagnostic testing to identify any underlying conditions.

Gas in your stomach is primarily caused by swallowing air when you eat or drink. Most stomach gas is released when you burp.

Gas forms in your large intestine (colon) when bacteria ferment carbohydrates — fiber, some starches and some sugars — that aren't digested in your small intestine. Bacteria also consume some of that gas, but the remaining gas is released when you pass gas from your anus.

Common foods that cause gas

Certain high-fiber foods may cause gas, including:

• Beans and peas (legumes)
• Fruits
• Vegetables
• Whole grains

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

Other dietary factors

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

• 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 the following:

• Chronic intestinal disease. Excess gas is often a symptom of chronic intestinal conditions, such as diverticulitis, ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease.
• 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 occur if your digestive system can't break down and absorb certain foods, such as the sugar in dairy products (lactose) or proteins such as gluten in wheat and other grains.
• Constipation. Constipation may make it difficult to pass gas.