Flatulence Remedy for Scouts

Scouts should be prepared with a flatulence remedy. Healthy backpacking foods such as legumes (beans, peas, and peanuts), whole grains, and vegetables like broccoli and onions, may cause flatulence in some hikers. I am particularly susceptible to garlic and soy. Fortunately, this is not a big problem when dining outdoors.

Gas forms in the large intestine where millions of naturally-occurring, beneficial bacteria break down complex carbohydrates that were not fully digested in the stomach. Some gas is reabsorbed into the bloodstream and eliminated through the lungs, but if sufficient volume is attained, gas blows out the back door as flatulence.

If gas causes you serious discomfort, such as abdominal pain, or you just want to reduce global warming, consider avoiding the offending foods. You could also chew a couple of Beano® tablets prior to eating foods that cause gas for flatulence relief.

Beano® is a natural product containing enzymes that helps break down complex carbohydrates so they won’t cause gas.

Here are some other Flatulence Remedies:

Flatulence Remedy for Scouts…

Sit on the ground with your legs spread wide and set your backpacking stove between your legs. Place a handful of acorns in your pot and light stove. Breathe deeply and try to relax for a minute while your nuts start to warm-up. Next, do five sit-ups, lean back… and release. Ask a buddy to pull your finger if necessary. Your stove may flare-up momentarily. Be careful not to burn your nuts.

From the Scout Master’s Handbook…

If the Troop is experiencing group flatulence, it is better to lead than to follow.

Leave No Trace Eighth Principle…

When flatulence strikes, trail etiquette requires that you pitch your tent downwind from the shelter.

Blame it on the Dog…

Oh, Rocky! This works best if the dog is actually present.

I hope (we all hope) that you find flatulence relief. See your doctor if symptoms persist or if your friends stop hiking with you. You could be suffering from Old Fart Disease or some other silent but deadly condition.

Now that you're prepared with a flatulence remedy, try my bean bark stew recipe!

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