Sahabat Pramita, have you ever heard that smelly flatulence is a sign of good digestion? Some believe that the worse it smells, the better the digestive system functions. But is that really true? Let’s explore the myths and facts behind body gas!

What is Flatulence?
Flatulence is a natural bodily process where gas is expelled from the digestive system. This gas comes from swallowed air when eating or drinking, as well as the fermentation of food by gut bacteria. On average, a person passes gas about 10-20 times per day (Furne & Levitt, 1996).

Why Does Flatulence Smell?
The odor mainly comes from hydrogen sulfide, methane, and ammonia, which are produced by bacteria breaking down sulfur-rich foods like eggs, broccoli, and red meat (Price et al., 1988). The more of these foods consumed, the stronger the smell.

Is Smelly Gas a Sign of a Healthy Digestive System?
Myth! Smelly gas is not necessarily a sign of a healthy gut. In fact, frequent and excessively foul-smelling gas may indicate digestive issues such as carbohydrate malabsorption, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or an imbalance of gut bacteria (Thomson et al., 2021). If you experience excessive gas with bloating or diarrhea, it may be time for a digestive health check.

Tips for a Healthy Digestive System

1. Consume Fiber in Moderation – Too much fiber can increase gas production.
2. Avoid Trigger Foods – Reduce intake of sulfur-rich foods if gas becomes too smelly.
3. Stay Hydrated – Drinking enough water supports better digestion.
4. Get a Digestive Health Check at PRAMITA – If persistent symptoms occur, a check-up on gut health could be a wise step.

Conclusion
Smelly gas is not a guaranteed sign of good digestion. Frequent and strong odors may indicate underlying digestive issues. Maintaining a balanced diet and getting a digestive health check at PRAMITA can help better understand your body’s condition.