Gas Attack? How to Put a Damper on Flatulence

We YOU Docs believe your health is a no-embarrassment zone, but read on with caution.

Friends’ Joey Tribianni knew how to buy time when he forgot a line -- stop and smell the . . . well, smell. It may work in that situation, but real flatulence -- from stomach and intestinal gas -- is a showstopper, particularly when loud and stinky.

You pass gas (fart, if you prefer) about 14 times a day. We all do -- even Dr. Oz! (Dr. Mike is writing this column.) Fortunately, most go unnoticed. Otherwise a 4-hour conference with 10 people would deliver 24 wind-breakers. Meeting adjourned!

Most passed gas is nitrogen. Carbon dioxide, methane and hydrogen are also common -- and inoffensive -- byproducts of digestion. Embarrassing noises announce the passage of gas when your tense sphincter acts as a wind instrument. And the smell -- that’s from hydrogen sulfide, which is produced when sulfur-rich food is digested by bacteria in your colon. Find out if irritable bowel syndrome or chronic constipation could be to blame for your flatulence.

Foods that promote sulfuric smells include eggs, meat, fish, beer, beans, broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage. If you don’t want to give up potentially gassy foods, you can control odor by eating leafy, green vegetables alongside them and taking a probiotic daily (pill form works best). To enjoy beans without the soundtrack, soak them ahead of time or try a little Beano. Check out this video on how to soak dried beans.

Other ways to reduce gas: Keep your bowels moving with regular exercise; rely on fruits, vegetables and whole grains to move things along; and stay hydrated to help avoid constipation.

Ah! Sweet silence.

Want to curb your gassy spells? Try eating smaller meals more often.