Why Do We Fart?
A playful introduction to digestion, gut bacteria and why gas needs a way out.
Explore how digestion, swallowed air and helpful gut microbes make the gas that leaves the body as flatulence.
A “bottom burp” is gas leaving the digestive system through the anus. Some gas begins as swallowed air, while much of it is made when microbes in the large intestine break down food that was not fully digested earlier.
Most of the gases involved have little or no smell. Tiny amounts of sulphur-containing gases create the familiar stink. Passing gas is normal; if it comes with persistent pain, vomiting, blood in poo, unexplained weight loss or a major change in bowel habits, tell a trusted adult and ask a healthcare professional.
Watch child-friendly videos about why bodies make gas.
A playful introduction to digestion, gut bacteria and why gas needs a way out.
A more detailed animation about swallowed air, microbial fermentation and the gases produced during digestion; best for older or especially curious children.
Use humour and straightforward science to make normal body sounds easier to discuss.
A funny read-aloud by Dawn McMillan that gives children a playful way to talk about body sounds
Shinta Cho’s reassuring picture book explains where gas comes from and reminds children that everyone passes it.
Review the science together with a quick family quiz.
Test what you remember about digestion, microbes and gas.
Follow gas into microbiology, animal digestion, communication and climate science.
Discover why researchers collected evidence about which animals pass gas—and how a funny question can open the door to anatomy, biodiversity and climate research.
How can creatures too small to see change what happens inside your body?
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