Passing gas is a normal part of digestion. As food is broken down in the digestive tract, bacteria in the large intestine produce gases such as hydrogen, methane, and carbon dioxide. Most healthy adults pass gas between 10 and 20 times per day, although the exact number varies depending on diet and individual digestive health.
If you're passing gas more than 25 times a day, particularly if it's accompanied by other symptoms, it may be worth paying attention to what your body is trying to tell you.
1. You May Be Eating More Gas-Producing Foods
Certain foods naturally increase gas production because they contain carbohydrates that are difficult to digest. These include:
- Beans and lentils
- Broccoli, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts
- Onions
- Apples and pears
- Whole grains
This type of increased gas is usually harmless.
2. You May Be Swallowing Too Much Air
Eating quickly, chewing gum, drinking carbonated beverages, smoking, or talking while eating can cause you to swallow excess air, leading to more frequent burping and flatulence.
3. You Could Have a Food Intolerance
Some people have difficulty digesting certain foods, resulting in excessive gas and bloating. Common examples include:
- Lactose intolerance
- Fructose intolerance
- Sensitivity to certain fermentable carbohydrates (FODMAPs)
4. Your Gut Bacteria May Be Changing
The balance of bacteria in your intestines plays a major role in digestion. Changes in the gut microbiome, after taking antibiotics or due to dietary changes, can temporarily increase gas production.
5. It Could Be a Digestive Disorder
Frequent gas accompanied by abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, or bloating may be associated with digestive conditions such as:
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- Celiac disease
- Inflammatory bowel disease
These conditions require evaluation by a healthcare professional.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Frequent gas alone is usually not a sign of a serious illness. However, medical evaluation is recommended if excessive flatulence occurs along with:
- Severe or persistent abdominal pain
- Unexplained weight loss
- Blood in the stool
- Persistent diarrhea or constipation
- Fever
- Vomiting
- Symptoms that interfere with daily life
These symptoms may indicate an underlying digestive condition that needs treatment.
Tips to Reduce Excessive Gas
You may be able to reduce gas by:
- Eating more slowly.
- Limiting carbonated drinks.
- Identifying foods that trigger your symptoms.
- Staying physically active.
- Drinking enough water.
- Seeking medical advice if symptoms persist.
The Bottom Line
Passing gas is a healthy and normal bodily function. While passing gas more than 25 times a day may simply reflect your diet or eating habits, it can sometimes point to food intolerances or digestive disorders—especially when accompanied by symptoms such as abdominal pain, persistent bloating, diarrhea, constipation, or unexplained weight loss. If excessive gas is persistent or concerning, a healthcare professional can help determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment.