Q:I have consulted doctors that prescribe medication that suppresses but
does not cure my flatulence problem. What can I do to alleviate
flatulence?
A: Intestinal gas is primarily made up of the
friendly bacteria in your intestine as it digests food. Here is what I suggest:
1. There are acupuncture and herbal remedies that can also help.
Consult a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner to receive a
specific formula for your condition. Also, the Chinese formula
"Preserve Harmony Pill" is often used to treat digestive disturbances.
2. Consider taking acidophilus or other probiotics to replenish
the intestinal bacteria. Pancreatin (3-4 grams daily) is a digestive
enzyme that, when taken with meals, can help reduce gas.
3. Do not eat gas-producing foods such as raw greens and beans.
If you have to eat beans, soak them overnight in water and then rinse
them with fresh water before cooking.
4. Stop smoking. When you smoke, you swallow more air that ends up in the intestine and has to come out
eventually as gas.
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