Part 1 of 5

Stomach problems and the gassy burp, like the poor, will always be with us. Though it has waned in popularity from the time when it was considered a subtle compliment to the chef, this phenomenon of social misbehavior is still by no means a forgotten art. Some people, or at least the belcher, seem not to be disturbed by the event, though company present may have a different reaction. There are others, however, who become deeply concerned at what they believe to be evidence of stomach problems or disordered intestines. Wherein lies the truth? What is the significance of “gas”? Is it really nothing of importance? Or does it signify a serious disorder of the food digestion canal?

Stomach Problems

Simple though it may seem to the patient who is “gassy,” the matter really is serious enough to deserve more than fleeting attention. There are many factors involved in bloating and other sensations which are taken to signify the presence of stomach gas. Some of these factors are definitely due to things wrong with the body, while others are just as surely due to disorders of the sympathetic nervous system reflex effects which emotional storms have upon these organs. In other words, in these cases it’s a matter of mind!

The scientific explanation of belching states that it is the result of a reversal in the normal wave of contraction which occurs in the throat and the gullet. This “backing up” is usually caused by over-eating. In fact, it is a gentle hint from an over-distended stomach to call off the banquet. It is a sort of standing-room-only sign and should be considered fair warning from the stomach that it is not going to stand for very much more. Stomach Problems Part 2