A follow-up...

A follow-up to my earlier post. Hopefully I can clarify and simplify a few things...

-See link #1 for the typical probiotic (good bacteria) supplements available.
-See link #2 for more info on boosting stomach acid, if this is an issue for you.
-See link #3 for the typical multi-enzyme digestive formulas available, if this is an issue for you.
-See link #4 for a sample comprehensive stool analysis report.
-See link #5 for a candida questionnaire.

Interested in herbs but thoroughly confused about which one(s) to try? Easy. Don't choose! Instead, select an herbal BLEND from a reputable supplier, and leave the homework to them. By doing so you'll also reduce the chance that you'll inadvertently choose those single herb(s) that don't do much for you. A well-formulated blend of herbs may help reduce your gas; if not, it's pretty safe to assume that herbs aren't going to help, and move on to other diagnoses and cures. See link #6 for anti-gas herbal blends.

Of the herbal bitters previously mentioned (gentian root, goldenseal, chamomile, and dandelion), gentian is the most commonly used. Bitters are most effective when sipped 15-30 minutes before a meal.

As for the effectiveness of Beano, in one study members of a test group each ate a half-pound of black beans. Of those who took the enzyme, 45% had gas-related symptoms, but they were not as bad as those who didn't take it. So Beano can certainly help, although it's not a cure-all. (Prevention magazine)

A normal person passes gas about 13 times a day, totaling between a pint and 2.5 quarts of intestinal gas (PacifiCare health newsletter). Five types of gas are produced, with odorless nitrogen, carbon dioxide, and hydrogen predominating. Tiny traces of gases such as hydrogen sulfide are responsible for any odor. High-sugar, high-fat diets contribute to gas, as do certain vegetables (beans, broccoli, etc.). Swallowing air, chewing gum, sucking hard candy, smoking, and not chewing one's food thoroughly can all contribute to gas.

Symptoms of Crohn's Disease, Celiac Disease, and Irritable Bowel Syndrome may include chronic gas. "Excess gas sometimes masks more serious ailments such as gall bladder problems or heart disease," per PacificCare. Lab tests are available to help diagnose these conditions.

From the Mayo Clinic: "Swallowed air makes up a small fraction of intestinal gas. Carbonated drinks (soda, beer, etc.) may release carbon dioxide in the stomach and may be a source of gas. (Note that such gas should have little smell since it's not originating from foods fermenting in the gut.) Sometimes excessive gas is attributable to a disease of the intestinal tract, and treatment often reduces such gas. In most cases, however, excessive gas is not the result of disease."

In case I've inadvertently freaked anyone out about the possibility or likelihood of disease in their guts, please re-read that very last sentence! Take care...

http://www.iherb.com/probiotics.html
//www.curezone.org/forums/m.asp?f=460&i=2868
http://www.iherb.com/digestion.html
http://gsdl.com/assessments/cdsa/reports/index2.html
http://discoveringwellness.hdmenterprises.com/candida.htm
http://www.vitaminli