A Harvard Medical School gastroenterologist, Dr Trisha Pasricha, has shared a surprisingly simple solution to a common yet unspoken problem: flatulence. According to Dr Pasricha, the active ingredient in the over-the-counter medication Pepto Bismol can reduce 95% of sulphide-containing gases and symptoms of flatulence. However, the medic warns it must be taken in moderation to avoid potential toxic effects.
Dr Pasricha, who specializes in gut health, revealed that the commonly available heartburn medication Pepto Bismol, or more specifically, its active ingredient – bismuth subsalicylate, can actually help in reducing the unpleasant odor often associated with flatulence.
In an Instagram clip that has been viewed tens of thousands of times, she explained that this treatment can reduce the sulphide-containing gases which are primarily responsible for the foul smell by up to 95%.
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However, she also cautioned that Pepto Bismol isn’t entirely risk-free. The medication, which is easily available from online pharmacies, can have toxic effects when taken in high doses. “But if you’re just trying to ease your social discomfort for a day or two by all means take a dose by mouth up to four times a day beforehand,” she suggested.
Dr Pasricha also noted that this remedy could be particularly helpful during air travel. She explained that as altitude increases, our intestinal gas expands due to the fall in air pressure. In such circumstances, taking a dose of bismuth subsalicylate could be beneficial.
She also clarified that only one per cent of the intestinal gases released during a fart are responsible for the unpleasant smell. “Ninety-nine per cent of our intestinal gas is made of odourless gases like nitrogen, methane and carbon dioxide. But one per cent contains sulphur and it’s that sulphur containing gas that makes farts smell so bad,” she said.
While farting is a normal biological function, excessive or particularly foul-smelling flatulence can sometimes be a sign of something more serious such as inflammatory bowel disease or even colon cancer. Therefore, if you notice a persistent change in your flatulence that concerns you, it’s advised to seek medical advice.
It’s also worth noting that the NHS advises people to eat smaller meals, drink and chew food slowly, exercise regularly and drink peppermint tea to cut down on excessive or smelly farts. It’s about maintaining a healthy lifestyle along with the use of over-the-counter remedies when necessary.
This revelation by Dr Pasricha sheds light on a common yet rarely discussed issue. Flatulence, a natural bodily function, can often become a source of social discomfort due to its associated unpleasant smell. The doctor’s recommendation of an over-the-counter solution, typically used for heartburn, is significant as it offers an accessible and simple remedy to a widespread problem.
The fact that bismuth subsalicylate can reduce 95% of sulphide-containing gases responsible for the smell of farts underlines the importance of understanding the compounds involved in our bodily functions. This opens up potential avenues for addressing other health-related concerns using over-the-counter medications in ways that were previously unexplored.
However, this should not undermine the importance of a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet and regular exercise, which the NHS also advises for reducing flatulence. It’s a reminder that while there are quick remedies available, long-term health depends on sustainable lifestyle choices.
Finally, the potential risks associated with excessive intake of Pepto Bismol highlight the need for moderation and medical advice when using medications outside their primary purpose. This is particularly important considering that persistent changes in flatulence can sometimes be an indicator of serious health conditions, requiring immediate medical attention.
