Farting might not be the most glamorous topic, but let’s be real—it’s a natural and necessary function of the body. Whether you admit it or not, everyone farts. In fact, the average person passes gas anywhere from five to ten times a day. Your diet, gut health, and even stress levels can influence how often it happens.

While many people find it awkward or embarrassing, farting actually has several health benefits beyond just the relief it brings. From improving digestion to signaling potential health issues, here are eight reasons why you shouldn’t hold it in.

1. Relieves Bloating

If you’ve ever felt uncomfortably full or swollen after a meal, trapped gas might be the culprit. Bloating occurs when excess gas builds up in your digestive system, causing pressure and discomfort. Releasing gas naturally helps relieve that pressure, making you feel lighter and more comfortable almost instantly. Holding it in, on the other hand, can prolong discomfort and make bloating worse.

2. Helps You Balance Your Diet

Your farts can actually give you clues about your diet. If your gas has a particularly strong odor, it could be a sign that you’re eating too much red meat or sulfur-rich foods like eggs and cruciferous vegetables. On the other hand, odorless gas usually comes from fiber-rich foods like beans, oats, and vegetables. Paying attention to these signals can help you adjust your diet for better digestion and overall nutrition.

3. Eases Abdominal Pain

Holding in gas might seem like the polite thing to do, but it can lead to discomfort or even sharp abdominal pain. Trapped gas creates pressure in the intestines, causing cramps or bloating. Releasing it when you feel the urge can prevent unnecessary discomfort and keep your digestive system functioning smoothly.

4. Supports Colon Health

Occasionally holding in gas won’t cause harm, but frequently suppressing it could lead to digestive issues. It puts unnecessary pressure on your colon and can worsen conditions like hemorrhoids. For those with digestive disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), passing gas naturally is even more important for maintaining colon health and overall well-being.

5. May Have Cellular Health Benefits

Believe it or not, farting could have some unexpected health perks. A study from the University of Exeter suggests that hydrogen sulfide—a gas found in flatulence—may help protect cells from oxidative damage. Exposure to small amounts of this compound could potentially lower the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other chronic conditions. While it may sound strange, even the most embarrassing bodily functions can have hidden health benefits.

6. Indicates Digestive Health

Changes in your farting habits can act as an early warning system for digestive issues. A sudden increase in gas, a change in its smell, or pain associated with it could signal dietary imbalances, infections, or other gastrointestinal problems. Paying attention to these signs can help you address potential issues before they develop into something more serious.

7. Identifies Food Intolerances

If you frequently experience excessive gas, it could be your body’s way of telling you that you have a food intolerance or allergy. Conditions like lactose intolerance and celiac disease often cause increased flatulence as the body struggles to process certain foods. Keeping track of when and what you eat can help you identify problem foods and make necessary dietary changes.

8. Provides Emotional Relief

Let’s face it—holding in gas is uncomfortable. It can make you irritable, tense, and physically uneasy. Releasing it naturally not only reduces pressure in your digestive system but can also improve your mood and overall sense of well-being. If you’re in a social setting, stepping away to a private space can help you enjoy the relief without embarrassment.

Tips for Managing Excessive Gas

If you feel like you’re passing gas too often, a few lifestyle changes can help. Eating more slowly can prevent you from swallowing too much air, while reducing carbonated drinks and artificial sweeteners can help decrease gas production. If you’re adding more fiber to your diet, do it gradually to give your body time to adjust.

Embrace the Natural Process

At the end of the day, farting is a completely normal part of life. It’s a sign that your digestive system is working as it should, helping your body process food and eliminate waste. While it may not always be the most socially acceptable habit, it plays an important role in keeping you healthy.

So, the next time you feel the urge to pass gas, remember—it’s not just a relief, it’s your body’s way of keeping everything in balance.