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Tackling Flatulence During Airplane Flights: Expert Advice and Preventative Measures
Frequent flyers may be all too familiar with the uncomfortable sensation of increased flatulence during airplane flights, a result of the cabin's pressurized environment at high altitudes. But fear not, as there are solutions and preventative measures to help alleviate this common issue.
The main culprit behind this phenomenon is the reduced air pressure in aircraft cabins, which simulates an altitude of about 6,000 to 8,000 feet. This lower pressure causes gases in the digestive system to expand, leading to bloating and increased flatulence[1][4].
To combat this, experts recommend the following preventative measures:
- Avoiding gas-producing foods: Foods known to increase intestinal gas such as carbonated drinks, beans, broccoli, onions, and heavy, fatty, or spicy meals should be avoided before and during the flight to reduce bloating and subsequent flatulence[3].
- Eating light, bland meals: Opt for lighter, blander, and cleaner foods to minimize digestive discomfort and gas accumulation in the intestines[3].
- Staying hydrated and moving during flights: Drinking plenty of water and walking around the cabin when possible can aid digestion and reduce the buildup of gas[2].
- Avoiding swallowing excess air: Minimize chewing gum and drinking with straws, as these habits can cause swallowing air, contributing to gas expansion during flight.
Some advanced aircraft, like the Airbus A350, have improved cabin pressurization systems that maintain a lower effective cabin altitude, which may help reduce gas expansion and related discomfort, although the effect may be modest[4].
Other practical advice includes:
- Walking up and down the aisle or massaging the belly to relieve pressure, as suggested by gastroenterologist Birgit Terjung[2].
- Drinking herbal tea instead of caffeine before flying to reduce the amount of air swallowed, according to gastroenterologist Birgit Terjung[7].
- Avoiding consuming pizza or burgers at the airport, due to their potential to produce more gas[10].
In the event that none of these methods prove effective, both Hans-Christian Pommergaard and gastroenterologist Birgit Terjung agree that it's best to "let it pass"[8][11].
The Danish study, led by Hans-Christian Pommergaard, also humorously addressed the pilot's dilemma regarding passing gas in the cockpit[9]. Interestingly, the study did not mention the use of activated carbon in airplane seats to neutralize fart odors, with Airbus believing that the cabin air circulation is already advanced enough that the addition of activated carbon in seats is unnecessary[6]. However, the Danish study did suggest that the use of activated carbon filters could be beneficial in neutralizing odors, as proven by a US study in 2005[5]. The study also humorously suggested that the situation in first class might be worse due to the repellent nature of leather seats[12].
In conclusion, by controlling diet before and during the flight, staying hydrated, and moving regularly, passengers can significantly reduce flatulence caused by the changes in air pressure on airplanes.
- Incorporating a health-and-wellness approach by selecting light, gas-minimizing foods such as lean proteins, whole grains, and fruits before airplane flights can help alleviate bloating and subsequent flatulence.
- The benefits of fitness-and-exercise, including walking the cabin aisles and massaging the belly during flights, can help relieve pressure and reduce flatulence for frequent flyers.
