Passing gas up to 25 times a day is generally considered normal, but a sudden increase in frequency, especially when accompanied by discomfort or other symptoms, signals that it might be time to pay closer attention. While occasional gas buildup is typically harmless and a part of normal digestion, consistently high levels of flatulence—especially when accompanied by symptoms like bloating, abdominal pain, irregular bowel movements, or an unpleasant odor—could indicate underlying issues in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Let’s take a closer look at what science says could be happening inside your digestive system.

1. Gut Dysbiosis: An Imbalance in the Microbial Ecosystem

Your digestive system is home to trillions of microorganisms, known collectively as the gut microbiome, which play a vital role in digestion, nutrient absorption, and immune function. However, when this delicate balance is disrupted, often due to antibiotics, chronic stress, poor diet, or illness, harmful bacteria can outgrow beneficial strains—leading to excessive gas production.

According to a 2020 review in Nature Reviews Gastroenterology & Hepatology, gut dysbiosis can increase the fermentation of undigested carbohydrates in the colon. This process generates higher levels of hydrogen, methane, and carbon dioxide, resulting in excessive flatulence. An overproduction of methane, in particular, has been linked to slower gut motility and constipation, making it harder for waste to move through the intestines efficiently.

2. Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO)

SIBO occurs when bacteria, typically found in the large intestine, migrate to the small intestine, where they shouldn’t be. This premature fermentation of food can cause symptoms like bloating, excessive gas, diarrhea, and even nutrient malabsorption.

A 2017 study published in the World Journal of Gastroenterology revealed that SIBO is often underdiagnosed, affecting up to 15% of otherwise healthy individuals and as many as 80% of those with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Left untreated, SIBO can impair nutrient absorption, including vital vitamins like B12, which can significantly impact overall health.

3. Food Intolerances and Poor Carbohydrate Absorption

Food intolerances, such as lactose intolerance, fructose malabsorption, and gluten sensitivity, are common culprits behind excessive gas. When the body cannot properly digest these substances, they remain in the gut, where bacteria ferment them, producing large amounts of gas as a byproduct.

A 2013 study in Neurogastroenterology & Motility found that individuals with fructose intolerance experienced significantly higher levels of bloating, abdominal discomfort, and flatulence after eating common foods like apples, onions, honey, and items sweetened with high-fructose corn syrup. This fermentation process not only causes discomfort but can also lead to inflammation in sensitive individuals.

4. Insufficient Digestive Enzyme Production

Digestive enzymes, which help break down proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, are crucial for proper digestion. As we age or due to certain medical conditions like chronic pancreatitis or celiac disease, the production of key enzymes such as amylase, lipase, and lactase may decline.

When there aren’t enough enzymes to break down food properly in the small intestine, undigested food particles travel to the colon, where they ferment and produce gas. This can result in symptoms such as fatty, foul-smelling stools (steatorrhea) and persistent bloating after meals.

5. Fiber Overload and Sudden Diet Changes

While fiber is essential for gut health, increasing fiber intake too quickly or consuming large amounts of gas-producing foods like beans, lentils, broccoli, and whole grains can overwhelm your digestive system.

A 2011 study published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology found that individuals on a high-fiber diet experienced increased flatulence and discomfort, particularly during the first few weeks of dietary change. Gradually increasing fiber intake, along with drinking plenty of water, can help ease this transition and reduce gas buildup.

6. Gastrointestinal Disorders You Shouldn’t Ignore

Excessive gas can sometimes signal a more serious GI issue. Here are a few conditions that may be responsible:

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Characterized by erratic bowel movements, abdominal pain, and gut sensitivity, IBS often causes persistent gas due to disrupted motility and microbiota imbalances.

• Celiac Disease: This autoimmune disorder, triggered by gluten consumption, damages the intestinal lining, leading to gas, bloating, and nutrient malabsorption.

• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Conditions like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis cause chronic inflammation in the gut, leading to excess gas production and digestive issues.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While passing gas is a natural part of digestion, certain symptoms in combination with persistent flatulence should prompt you to consult a healthcare provider. These red flags include:

• Chronic or severe bloating

• Unexplained weight loss

• Persistent changes in bowel habits (diarrhea or constipation)

• Fatigue or signs of nutrient deficiencies

• A sudden change in gas frequency or odor

Such symptoms could indicate an underlying condition that requires medical evaluation, such as a breath test for SIBO, stool analysis, or food sensitivity testing.

Understanding What Your Body Is Telling You

Passing gas up to 25 times a day is generally considered normal, but a sudden increase in frequency, particularly if accompanied by discomfort or other symptoms, should not be ignored. Flatulence may be your body’s way of signaling that something is wrong. Rather than attributing it solely to your diet or masking it with air fresheners, consider that your gut might need better balance or professional evaluation.

Listening to your digestive system is essential for maintaining your health. Your body often communicates through symptoms—pay attention, and you can prevent minor issues from becoming more significant.