Definition

By Mayo Clinic Staff

Intestinal gas is a buildup of air in the digestive tract. It is usually not noticed until you burp or pass it rectally, called flatulence. The entire digestive tract, from the stomach to the rectum, contains intestinal gas. It is the natural result of swallowing and digestion.

In fact, certain foods, such as beans, are not fully broken down until they reach the colon in the large intestine. In the colon, bacteria act on these foods, which causes the gas.

Everyone passes gas several times daily. Occasional burping or flatulence is normal. However, too much intestinal gas sometimes indicates a digestive disorder.

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July 11, 2023

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