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An antiflatulent agent is a drug used for the alleviation or prevention of excessive intestinal gas, i.e. flatulence.
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Mechanisms of Action
For the alleviation of flatulence, an antifoaming agent such as simethicone may be taken orally. This agent will coalesce the smaller gas bubbles into larger bubbles, thereby easing the release of gas within the gastrointestinal tract via burping or flatulence.
For the prevention of flatulence, an enzyme-based dietary supplement may be helpful. Substances indigestible by humans are usually present in foods associated with flatulence. When these substances reach the large intestine intact, they may be fermented by intestinal bacteria, thereby causing gas production. These enzyme-based dietary supplements work by breaking down these indigestible substances and preventing these substances from reaching the large intestine intact. These supplements are usually taken with foods associated with flatulence. It is important to take the appropriate enzyme with the appropriate food. When consuming beans and other vegetables high in complex carbohydrates, it may be helpful to take a product that contains alpha-galactosidase, such as Beano. Additionally, for individuals with lactose intolerance, taking a lactase-containing product with lactose-containing foodstuffs may reduce flatulence.
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Antifoaming Agents
Enzyme-based Dietary Supplements
Herbal Antiflatulents
- Epazote is claimed to have antiflatulent properties, and is used in traditional Mexican cuisine for this reason.
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Wikipedia content modification information:
- This page was last modified on 31 January 2008, at 20:05.
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