Oh, Doctor, there’s just one more thing…

Flatulence

‘Wind is a perfectly normal occurrence, caused mainly by the action of bacteria on undigested food,’ says Professor Alastair Forbes of the digestive disorders charity CORE (www.corecharity.org.uk). And, while wind may be embarrassing, it’s not serious unless you have other major symptoms, such as a change in bowel habits or bleeding.

What can you do?

● Avoid ‘gassy’ foods such as beans, peas, broccoli, Jerusalem artichokes, raisins, prunes and slimming foods that contain sorbitol or fructose.

● Eat and drink slowly. Chew your food properly and cut down on fizzy drinks.

● Avoid tight clothing, which can increase pressure on the abdomen and make it more difficult for wind to pass normally.