Causes of Gas After Eating Oats and Bran

Food Allergy

Can oatmeal allergies cause nasal congestion?

People with an oatmeal allergy can experience a range of symptoms such as sneezing, nasal congestion, dry cough, itchy ears and a dry, itchy mouth, according to Livestrong.com in 2019. These symptoms can occur shortly after consumption. Allergic reactions to oats are usually caused by a protein found in oats called avenin.

Can Beano help reduce gas?

Using a product like Beano can help to decrease gas caused by fiber in the diet. Beano is an over-the-counter medication that contains a natural enzyme to prevent bloating and gas, as suggested by WikiHow on their website in 2021. Studies have shown that high-fiber diets can be beneficial for digestive health, which may explain why gas is more common when consuming high-fiber foods.

How can we reduce stomach gas from fiber?

The better-digested fiber produces more gas, so it is possible to reduce stomach gas when eating fiber by choosing types of fiber that are less easily digested by colonic bacteria. Sourced from MedicineNet, this gas occurs because bacteria within the colon produce gas as a by-product of their digestion of fiber. Different sources of fiber contain different types of fiber which vary in their digestibility.

Poor Digestion

Does oatmeal cause bloating?

Oats do not cause bloating, according to the Mayo Clinic. They are high in soluble fiber which can help lower blood cholesterol and glucose levels. Oats are high in fiber and protein, making them a nutritious choice for those looking to improve their diet.

How can oatmeal help support digestion?

Insoluble fiber in oatmeal, which accounts for 3 grams of its 4 grams of dietary fiber, can stimulate digestive activity and help support regularity, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Eating oatmeal may thus help reduce indigestion symptoms. It can provide other health benefits such as reducing cholesterol levels.

Can oat intolerance cause digestive issues?

Oat intolerance can cause a range of mild to severe symptoms when consumed, such as diarrhea, due to their high levels of soluble and insoluble fibers. Cited on Gut Advisor, these symptoms can become chronic if oats are consumed repeatedly. Research has found that a gluten-free diet may help reduce symptoms associated with oat intolerance.

Gluten Sensitivity

What is celiac disease?

Celiac disease is a condition in which damage to the small intestine is caused by eating gluten, causing symptoms such as weight loss, bloating, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, and constipation. As mentioned in Mayo Clinic, more than half of adults with celiac disease have signs and symptoms unrelated to the digestive system. Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder that affects the small intestine and can result in malabsorption of essential nutrients and vitamins.

Can gluten intolerance cause gas and bloating?

Yes, gluten intolerance can cause gas and bloating. As stated by GlutenProTalk.com, patients with gluten sensitivity may experience gastrointestinal symptoms after consuming gluten, such as bloating and gas, which typically occur within a few hours or days. Research has found that people with gluten sensitivity often experience an increase in intestinal gas production and abdominal distension after eating gluten-containing foods.

Do oats provide health benefits?

Oats do not cause bloating, as they are high in soluble fiber and protein which can help lower blood cholesterol and glucose levels, according to the Mayo Clinic. Oats contain essential minerals, such as magnesium, phosphorus and zinc, which are necessary for a healthy body.

Intestinal Bacteria Imbalance

What is dysbiosis?

Dysbiosis is an imbalance of bacteria in the gut, which can be tested for with a balloon air test. Healthline states that this test is often used to detect small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) and can determine if too much or too little of certain gases are present. Other treatments and lifestyle changes can be used to restore balance in the digestive system.

What causes intestinal gas?

Intestinal gas is caused by gut bacteria, according to a study by International on Sep 8, 2016. This gas is created when bacteria in the gut break down carbohydrates that are not fully digested. Sulfur-containing compounds can also be produced by certain types of bacteria, leading to the often unpleasant odor associated with intestinal gas.

What are the signs and symptoms of gas and gas pains?

Gas and gas pains are normal and can be caused by burping, passing gas, cramps or a knotted feeling in the abdomen, feeling full or bloated, and an increase in the size of the abdomen - according to Mayo Clinic, Jan 6, 2022. These signs and symptoms can occur up to 20 times a day.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease

What are the benefits of eating oats?

The consumption of whole-grain foods such as oats has been shown to be beneficial in reducing the risk of colorectal cancer, as well as providing benefits for inflammatory bowel disease and coeliac disease, according to a systematic literature review by the University of Newcastle upon Tyne published in 2014 on PubMed. The review found that oats are a source of dietary fibre which is important in maintaining digestive health.

What foods might cause gas and bloating?

Gas and bloating are common problems for people with inflammatory bowel disease, however, avoiding or cutting back on certain foods can help relieve some of the discomfort. As mentioned in Verywell Health, 8 foods in particular can cause gas, such as beans, cruciferous vegetables, dairy products, fatty foods, artificial sweeteners, and more. With the right dietary modifications, it is possible to reduce gas and bloating.

Do you experience abdominal pain or changes in bowel habits?

Celiac disease and IBS are two distinct conditions, although they can both cause pain in the abdomen and a change in bowel habits. According to WebMD, IBS can cause strong stomach pain or bloating, constipation, diarrhea or both at different times, and the pain can flare up after eating. Celiac disease is caused by an autoimmune reaction to gluten proteins found in wheat, rye and barley and can cause serious health complications if left untreated.

High-Fiber Content of Oats and Bran

What are the risks of excessive fiber intake?

Excessive fiber intake can lead to various digestive issues, such as weight gain or loss, nausea, and intestinal blockage in rare cases. According to Medical News Today, fiber makes bowel movements bigger and bulkier, and promotes fermentation and gas formation. Eating a balanced diet with the recommended daily amount of fiber is the best way to avoid these symptoms.

Can oat intolerance cause gastric discomfort?

Oat intolerance is caused by beta glucan, a type of fiber found in oats, which can cause gastric discomfort, gas and bloating. Attributed to Gut Advisor, this condition can be identified by four symptoms: abdominal pain, bloating, gas and diarrhea. In addition, research has shown that oats have a high fiber content which can contribute to gastrointestinal symptoms in some people.

How can eating high-fiber foods help?

Eating high-fiber foods, such as beans, oats, flaxseed and oat bran, can help to lower total blood cholesterol levels and reduce blood pressure and inflammation. This was suggested by Mayo Clinic in Nov 2022, and it may also help control blood sugar levels.

Food Intolerance

Do you suffer from any symptoms after eating certain foods?

People who suffer from food intolerance can experience various symptoms such as diarrhoea, bloating, farting and tummy pain, as well as headache, tiredness, nausea, constipation, joint pain or rashes a few hours after consuming the food or ingredient they are intolerant to, according to the NHS (National Health Service). It is also important to note that food allergies can cause similar symptoms, but they are much more serious and require immediate medical attention.

Do you have a food intolerance?

Food intolerance is a digestive sensitivity to certain foods that can cause symptoms like gas and diarrhea. An info from the Cleveland Clinic, when you have a food intolerance, your digestive system has difficulty breaking down the food. Research has shown that food intolerances can be triggered by different components of food, including sugar, fat, and gluten.

Do you have an oat allergy?

Oat allergy is an allergic reaction to a protein found in oats called avenin, which can cause itchy or irritated skin, runny nose, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. As indicated by Healthline, oat allergy is relatively uncommon and it is often found in people who have allergies to other grains such as wheat or barley. Since oats are often used in a variety of food products, it is important to check product labels for the presence of oats before consumption.

Insufficient Enzyme Production

Can oatmeal cause gas?

Oatmeal can cause gas due to its high fiber content. As stated by Livestrong, a 1/2-cup serving of dry oatmeal contains around 4 grams of fiber, which can lead to increased gas production in some individuals. The carbohydrates present in oatmeal can be hard for the body to break down, leading to further discomfort.

What causes intestinal gas?

Intestinal gas is primarily caused by swallowing too much air, overeating, smoking or chewing gum, or eating certain foods that are difficult to digest. According to the Mayo Clinic Staff, excess lower intestinal gas can also be caused by a disruption in the bacteria normally found in the colon. Some studies have indicated that certain medical conditions can also lead to increased levels of intestinal gas.

Oats can cause gas and bloating when combined with sugary toppings or prepackaged contents, according to HealthyGutClub.com in Jan 2022. This may be due to the bacteria in the intestines that work hard to digest the protein and starch. To reduce the effects of gas and bloating, it is recommended to slowly build up tolerance to eating oats by starting with a small serving size and gradually increasing it.

Ulcerative Colitis

What is ulcerative colitis?

Ulcerative colitis is a digestive disorder that causes inflammation and ulcers in the lining of the large intestine, leading to symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain and cramping, rectal pain and rectal bleeding. Cited from Mayo Clinic, this condition can vary in severity and is usually treated with medication or surgery. Lifestyle changes such as limiting stress, eating well-balanced meals, and exercising regularly may help reduce symptoms.

What foods may contribute to gas and bloating associated with IBD?

Gas and bloating are common side effects of Crohn's or colitis, and can be caused by inflammation related to IBD as well as harder-to-digest foods. From the Inflammatory Bowel Disease website, foods that may contribute to gas and bloating include beans, broccoli, cabbage, onions and carbonated drinks. Eating smaller meals, avoiding these foods and taking probiotics may help reduce the occurrence of gas and bloating.

Do you experience gas and bloating after eating?

Gas and bloating are a normal part of digestion, with an average of 15 times of wind passed daily. An info from Crohn's and Colitis Canada, bloating is when your tummy feels swollen after eating, and gas and bloating often go hand in hand. Dietary changes, such as eating smaller meals more frequently, can help manage symptoms of gas and bloating.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Can oatmeal cause acid reflux?

Eating oatmeal may cause acid reflux symptoms in some people, according to livestrong.com. Eating a large breakfast or lying down within two to three hours of eating can also worsen symptoms. Certain components in oatmeal such as fiber, fat, and starch may contribute to the development of acid reflux.

What are some ways to manage GERD?

Eating a diet rich in healthy fats and avoiding saturated fats from meat and dairy, as well as trans fat from processed foods, is the best way to manage GERD, according to a study published by Medical News Today on Sep 1, 2022. Eating small meals regularly, limiting the amount of acidic and spicy foods, and avoiding caffeine and alcohol can also help reduce symptoms of acid reflux.

Can wheat cause acid reflux?

Wheat does not cause acid reflux, according to Dr. C. Prakash Gyawali, a gastroenterologist at the Mayo Clinic. Eating large meals can cause heartburn, which is the main symptom of acid reflux. To reduce the risk of experiencing symptoms, it is important to avoid overeating and to maintain a healthy diet.

Source:

• Livestrong : Oatmeal Allergy Symptoms.
• Livestrong : Oats, Bloating.
• Mayoclinic : Celiac disease, Symptoms, causes, Mayo Clinic.
• Healthline : Test, Treatment.
• Nih : Oats, bowel disease, a systematic literature review.