Flatulence

In fact, academics claim that the world’s oldest joke is a one-liner about flatulence. It’s a Sumerian proverb from 1900BC, in what is now southern Iraq.

“Something which has never occurred since time immemorial; a young woman did not fart in her husband's lap.”

The joke hasn’t aged well, but there are plenty of modern versions of it.

For some people though, excessive flatulence is no laughing matter. It can make them feel awkward and uneasy when they're around other people.

However, the problem can usually be controlled by changing your diet and lifestyle.

Very common

Flatulence is very common, and everyone experiences it. Most men pass wind 14-25 times a day, and most women between 7 and 12 times a day.

“It's a curiosity of English social life that if you belch you say pardon, but if you fart, you just say nothing and walk away,” says Dr John Bennett, president of Core, a charity for gut and liver disease.

Gas is produced by the digestive system when enzymes and bacteria break down your food.

“[Bacteria] will act on any undigested food residues in the colon, often producing gas of various sorts. Some of it is innocent stuff, some of it a bit smelly,” says Dr Bennett.

Some medical conditions can cause flatulence, such as constipation and irritable bowel syndrome. Medication can help to control the symptoms.

How to prevent flatulence

If flatulence is a problem for you, try cutting down on foods that contain sugars that the digestive system can't break down. See Flatulence: foods to avoid.

Still aim to eat a healthy, balanced diet that includes at least five portions of fruit and vegetables a day.

Avoid eating foods that are high in unabsorbable carbohydrates. Instead, go for foods that are easy to digest, such as potatoes, rice and bananas. 

For more self-care tips and advice on medical treatments, see Health A-Z: flatulence.