Is It Bad for Your Health If You Hold in Gas?

Of course, proper etiquette dictates you to hold in gas, but is it really good for your health?

Well, yes and no. There haven't been any official studies looking into comparisons between those who do and those who do not pass gas; however, there have been some observations by professionals in the recent years.

In terms of serious health issues, you won't be harmed by keeping in gas. Besides, almost half a liter of gas leaves the body in portions anyway every day. Plus, even if you're consciously holding it in during the day, it will come out while you're sleeping. Not to mention, there are other events when it is forced to come out, such as during exercise, sneezes, or coughing. Even without these catalysts, if there is too much gas, it will be nearly impossible to keep in.

While this practice might not cause any serious health problems, that doesn't mean it won't bother you. Sometimes it can cause stomach pains, nausea, bloating, indigestion, cramping, and heartburn. Due to the intestinal distension that occurs as a result, blood pressure and heart rate sometimes increase.

On another level, there may even be some mental stress from keeping the gas in.

Should you hold it in?

According to Dr. Oz, "You shouldn't bother [holding it in]. Let it come out when it's supposed to come out. Be smart about it. Do it in a place that's airy enough that you're not going to hurt your family and friends."

There are some major reasons why you should not try to hold it in. For one, although there are no serious health dangers associated with suppressing gas, it is a natural process in your body that is supposed to take place. If you do not allow it to happen, the release from the gastrointestinal system will be delayed. While this won't lead to serious damage, it can lead to intense discomfort by placing excessive pressure on the lower intestinal system. If you feel constantly bloated, it is likely your body reacting to the suppression of gas. This can become very painful. Gas is meant to be released, so your body will find ways to react if it is not properly removed, such as bloating. This often occurs after large meals, especially when gas is held in intentionally. Some even mistake this sensation for food poisoning when it is simply held in flatulence.

If you do not allow the gas to pass, it is possible that it will be reabsorbed in the body, which can cause gastrointestinal problems.

Although there is no proof, some believe that if you forcibly hold in your gas, when it does get released it will smell worse. While there is limited evidence, it is possible that the gas begins to rot away when it is stuck in the stomach, leading to a more intense odor. 

Read on to see how bad holding your gas in can be to your overall health.