This is a question that few French people dare to ask in an office. However, flatulence is part of our daily lives. But ultimately, at what frequency of farts should we be concerned?
To answer this question, Australian researchers conducted a large study. They recruited thousands of volunteers, who then recorded their every flatulence on the “Chart Your Fart” app. Result ? Most participants reported passing around five gases per day.
Between two and seven gas emissions per day
For years, experts have estimated that a person emits between 5 and 20 flatulences per day. A very wide range, based on limited data. The good news? By analyzing the habits of more than 6,400 participants, the researchers were able to establish a much more precise average.
They found that almost eight in ten people reported between two and seven gas emissions per day. In other words, the majority of people fart less often than one might think.
The study also highlights some notable differences depending on the profiles. Men reported slightly more flatulence than women. Young people aged 14 to 25 reported the least.
Ultimately, these results make it possible to establish more reliable reference values. Useful details for doctors who could use it to better assess the digestive disorders of their patients.
Why is flatulence more common at the end of the day?
If you feel like you’re passing more flatulence after dinner, you’re not alone: researchers have confirmed that it increases in the evening, peaking between 6 p.m. and 10 p.m.
And this is explained by the very functioning of our digestive system.
Throughout the day, meals follow one another and the intestinal bacteria continue their fermentation work. Certain dietary fibers, which the body cannot digest on its own, are then broken down by the microbiota. However, this fermentation naturally produces gases… which end up being evacuated.
Diet therefore plays a key role in the emission of these famous farts. Certain foods are also known for their fermentable power: cruciferous vegetables (cabbage, broccoli, Brussels sprouts), onions, garlic, shallots, artichokes, legumes, etc.
To limit the production of intestinal gas, we can therefore try to consume less of it – without eliminating it.
“We can also review the way we consume them, favoring cooked vegetables over raw vegetables, cooking them, blanching them, etc. The way we eat them is just as important: chewing is the first step in digestion, so it is important to eat and drink slowly, so as to improve intestinal absorption and reduce gas production”recommends Dr Philippe Godeberge, gastroenterologist and hepatologist in Paris.
Should you consult in case of frequent flatulence?
In most cases, flatulence is simply a reflection of a healthy digestive system. They allow the air swallowed during meals to be evacuated as well as the gases resulting from digestion.
Their presence should therefore not cause concern. On the other hand, other changes should alert you (abundant and painful flatulence, transit disorders, weight loss or blood in the stools, etc.) and prompt you to consult.
“Stools that are unusual in color, shape, or smell most often indicate an intestinal imbalance. Do not hesitate to consult if these symptoms persist. insists Dr Philippe Godeberge.
Also be careful: the total absence of gas accompanied by stomach pain – or a very swollen stomach – also constitutes a warning signal that should not be neglected: it can in fact indicate a severe slowdown in transit or an intestinal obstruction.