Gas BeGone

The embarrasement of "passing gas" can be great. Although we don’t like to talk about it, everybody passes gas on occasion, and with some people it's quite common on a regular basis. In fact, the average person has 10 to 15 “problems” with this every day! This produces a total of a pint or two of gas. It comes from air we swallow, chemical reactions in the gut, and bacteria living in the intestines. But just because it’s normal doesn’t mean it’s pleasant by any means. Excessive gas can result in bloating and discomfort, not to mention embarrassment. There is an old, inexpensive, over-the-counter drug that can give you quick, safe relief. Simethicone is the generic name for the active ingredient in Gas-X, Maalox, Mylanta, and related products.

It works by decreasing the surface area and tension on gas bubbles in the gastrointestinal tract. This causes them to form larger bubbles that can be passed more easily (and more socially acceptably) by burping. Available in drugstores in liquid, capsule, or tablet form, simethicone should be taken as directed after meals and at bedtime, if needed. It is so safe and well tolerated.