Managing Eating Problems During Cancer Treatment: Gas and Bloating

Gas can become trapped in the digestive system, causing cramping and discomfort. Some remedies to prevent the problem are:

• Eat and drink slowly.
• Avoid gas forming foods such as beans, carbonated drinks, onions, cabbage, and broccoli.
• Exercise mildly to help move gas from the bowel. Check with your doctor first.
• Avoid drinking through a straw to prevent swallowing air.
• Avoid chewing gum to avoid swallowing air.
• Don’t talk much at meals to avoid swallowing air.
• Ask your doctor if you can use over-the-counter gas medicine.

Source: UI Cancer Information Service
Last Reviewed: March 2011