Flatulence is caused by the fermentation and digestion of food in the gastrointestinal tract, which produces gasses such as methane, hydrogen, and carbon dioxide. The smell of a fart is determined by the types of bacteria present in the gut, as well as the types of foods that have been consumed.
How to make pregnancy farts smell better
As we have mentioned in another post, some people consider pregnancy farts to be extra stinky. There is no guaranteed way to make farts smell better during pregnancy, but there are a few things you could try to reduce the frequency or intensity of pregnancy farts.
1. Finetune your diet
The worst possible diet for someone trying to avoid stinky farts would likely be a diet high in sulfur-containing foods. Sulfur is an important nutrient that is found in many healthy foods, such as eggs, meat, and cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower. However, sulfur can also contribute to the odor of passing gas.
Other foods that may lead to stinky farts include those that are high in fiber, such as beans and legumes, as well as those that are high in fat or fried, processed, or spicy foods. Consuming large amounts of alcohol or caffeine can also increase flatulence and its odor.
2. Keep yourself hydrated
Staying hydrated can help to promote healthy digestion and reduce the risk of constipation, which can lead to increased flatulence. In general, it is recommended that adults drink at least 8 cups (64 ounces) of water per day, or more if they are physically active or in hot environments.
There are a few ways to tell if you are adequately hydrated:
- Your urine color is pale yellow or straw-colored
- You are not feeling thirsty
- Your skin elasticity is good
- Your bowel movement is regular and easy to pass
- Your energy level is good and you feel sharp
3. Exercise regularly
Regular exercise during pregnancy can have many benefits, including improved cardiovascular health, reduced risk of gestational diabetes and hypertension, improved mood and energy levels, and easier labor and delivery. Exercise can also help to promote healthy digestion and reduce gas production.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that pregnant women aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week, spread out over at least three days per week. However, every pregnancy is unique, and it is important to speak with your healthcare provider before starting or continuing an exercise program during pregnancy to ensure that it is safe and appropriate for you and your baby.
4. Take on probiotics
Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are beneficial for digestive health. Taking a probiotic supplement may help to balance the gut microbiome and reduce flatulence. While many strains of probiotics are generally considered safe for pregnant women, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplements, because some may not be appropriate for those with certain medical conditions or those taking certain medications.
Probiotics can also be found naturally in certain foods. Some common sources of probiotics include yogurt (with live and active cultures), kefir and fermented vegetables, such as sauerkraut, kimchi and pickles. Two types of probiotic strains that are commonly found in foods and supplements and are generally considered safe for pregnant women are Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium.
5. Use a fart deodorizer
Fart deodorizer is a device that is designed to help reduce the odor of passing gas. There are a few different types of fart deodorizers available, but many are worn as an insert in underwear or as an external pad over clothing. The deodorizer will work by trapping the gas and neutralizing the odor. While different deodorizers effectiveness may vary, using one may be worth a try if you’re concerned about the smell of your pregnancy farts.
