OTC Medications to Help With Gas

Stomach acids are used to digest food. The food then proceeds to the small intestine. There, digestive secretions from various organs, such as your pancreas and gallbladder, further break down the meal and absorb nutrients. What is left travels through your large intestine. The large intestine is capable of absorbing water.

Fremont, CA: Everyone has digestive issues from time to time, ranging from embarrassing gas to excruciating heartburn. The good news is that many problems can be solved relatively simply.  Digestion is a lengthy process involving numerous organs. They make up the digestive tract.

Digestion starts in the mouth, where saliva decomposes food as you chew. When you swallow, your chewed food travels to your esophagus, which connects your throat and stomach. Muscles in the esophagus drive food down to a valve at the bottom, which opens and lets food into the stomach.

Stomach acids are used to digest food. The food then proceeds to the small intestine. There, digestive secretions from various organs, such as your pancreas and gallbladder, further break down the meal and absorb nutrients. What is left travels through your large intestine. The large intestine is capable of absorbing water. The waste subsequently exits your body via the rectum and anus.

Gas is a natural aspect of healthy digestion. Air in your digestive tract is either expelled through your mouth as a burp or from your anus as gas. You generally pass gas 13 to 21 times per day.

Gas is produced when you ingest air, such as during eating or drinking. It is, however, a consequence of the breakdown of food. Some foods give off more gas than others. You could also be more sensitive to certain foods, increasing flatulence when eating them.

Some drugs can also induce flatulence. If you have a lot of gas or are incredibly uncomfortable, an over-the-counter medication may be helpful.

Lactase Supplements

If dairy is causing you problems, consuming these tablets or drops just before meals will aid in the digestion of lactose (the primary sugar found in dairy products) and minimize flatulence.

Alpha-Galactosidase

This digestive aid is available in both liquid and pill form. It's taken before eating to assist your body in breaking down complex carbs or sugars that cause flatulence, like those found in beans, broccoli, and cabbage. Warning: People with galactosemia should avoid it. It may interact with certain diabetes medications, such as acarbose (Precose) or miglitol (Glyset). If you use diabetes medication, consult your doctor or pharmacist before using this supplement.

Simethicone

Taking these beverages or tablets can help alleviate bloating and pain caused by gas.

Probiotics

These supplements include "friendly" bacteria, which can aid digestion. Probiotics are found in foods such as yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut, as well as tablets and powders that you can sprinkle on your food.