Farting might not be the most glamorous subject, but it’s a completely natural and essential part of maintaining good digestive health. Most people pass gas between five and ten times a day, with the frequency largely influenced by their diet and gut health. While it may seem like an awkward or embarrassing topic, there’s no denying that farting serves an important purpose for your body. Surprisingly, letting gas out offers a host of benefits that go beyond just physical relief.

Whether it’s caused by foods high in complex carbohydrates—like beans, lentils, or sweet potatoes—or other dietary choices, passing gas is a sign that your digestive system is functioning properly. Here are eight health benefits of farting that you might not have considered before:

1. Relieves Bloating

One of the most common causes of bloating is trapped gas. If you’ve ever felt your stomach swell uncomfortably after a big meal, that tightness is likely due to gas buildup. Passing gas helps to relieve that internal pressure almost instantly, according to Health Direct. By letting it out, you can prevent the discomfort and heaviness that often accompanies bloating.

2. Helps You Balance Your Diet

Farting can offer valuable insights into your diet. For instance, particularly strong-smelling gas might indicate that you’re consuming too much red meat or protein-heavy foods. On the other hand, larger volumes of odorless gas are often the result of eating healthy, fiber-rich carbohydrates such as beans, oats, or broccoli. Paying attention to these patterns can help you adjust your diet to strike the right balance between nutrients.

3. Eases Abdominal Pain

Holding in gas might seem polite in social situations, but it can lead to unnecessary discomfort. Trapping gas in your digestive system creates internal pressure that often results in cramps and abdominal pain. Letting gas out is a simple way to relieve this discomfort and keep your digestive system running smoothly.

4. Protects Colon Health

While occasionally holding in gas is harmless, doing so regularly can strain your digestive system. Over time, this habit can exacerbate conditions like hemorrhoids or cause unnecessary stress on your colon. For people with pre-existing colon issues, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or other gastrointestinal disorders, releasing gas naturally is especially crucial for maintaining colon health.

5. Might Boost Cellular Health

This one might surprise you: a study conducted by the University of Exeter suggests that small amounts of hydrogen sulfide, a component of flatulence, could actually be good for your cells. Researchers found that exposure to low levels of this gas can help protect cells from oxidative damage, potentially reducing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other chronic conditions. While the idea may sound unappealing, it highlights how even the most unexpected aspects of our biology can play a role in our health.

6. Signals Digestive Health

Paying attention to changes in your gas can provide valuable clues about your digestive health. For instance, an increase in the frequency or intensity of your flatulence—or if it’s accompanied by pain—could indicate dietary imbalances, gastrointestinal infections, or other underlying issues. If you notice such changes, it might be worth consulting a healthcare provider to rule out any potential problems.

7. Identifies Food Allergies

Excessive flatulence can also be a sign of food intolerances or allergies. For example, people with lactose intolerance or celiac disease often experience more gas as their bodies struggle to process certain foods. Keeping track of how your body reacts to specific meals can help you identify problem foods and make necessary adjustments to your diet. This awareness can go a long way in improving your overall digestive health.

8. Provides Emotional Relief

Let’s face it—farting feels good. Holding in gas can make you irritable and uncomfortable, while releasing it offers immediate physical and emotional relief. The act of letting gas out reduces tension in your digestive system, leaving you feeling more relaxed and at ease. If you’re in a social setting, simply excuse yourself to a private area and enjoy the sense of relief.

Simple Tips to Manage Excessive Gas

If you find yourself dealing with excessive gas, there are a few lifestyle adjustments you can make to reduce it. Eating more slowly can help prevent swallowing excess air, while limiting carbonated beverages and artificial sweeteners may reduce bloating and gas production. Including more fiber-rich foods in your diet can also promote healthier digestion, but it’s best to introduce them gradually to avoid overwhelming your system.

Embrace the Natural Process

At the end of the day, farting is a sign that your digestive system is working properly. While it might not be the most socially acceptable topic, it’s a natural process that plays an essential role in keeping your body healthy. Rather than feeling embarrassed, embrace this part of your biology and recognize it for what it is—a normal and beneficial function of your body.

So, the next time you feel the need to pass gas, remember that it’s not just a relief—it’s a way of supporting your health. After all, a well-functioning digestive system is key to overall wellness. Why not take a moment to appreciate the little things your body does to keep you healthy?