Does Putting A Potato In Beans Reduce Gas? Resolved

Last Updated on September 15, 2024 by Shari Mason

Beans are a **wonderful** and healthy choice enjoyed by people all over.

However, one common issue I’ve encountered with beans is gas production during digestion, which can cause discomfort and embarrassment. 

But does putting a potato in beans reduce gas? Is there any truth to this claim? Read on to find out.

Can Potatoes Reduce Gas In Beans?

The claim that putting a potato [1] in beans while cooking can reduce gas production is a common remedy for this issue. However, there is no scientific evidence to support this claim. 

While some people may find that putting a potato in their beans reduces gas, others may not notice any difference.

The theory behind this claim is that the potato will absorb some of the gas-producing compounds in the beans, reducing the amount of gas they produce. 

However, it’s important to note that the potato can also be a gas source, and overcooking it can break down the starches and worsen the problem. 

While putting a potato in beans may be a harmless method, there are other proven methods to reduce gas production, such as soaking the beans before cooking or adding digestive enzymes to your diet.

But can natural gas and propane be used interchangeably?

Other Methods To Reduce Gas Production In Beans

1. Soak the beans before cooking: Soaking beans for several hours or overnight can help reduce the gas they produce. Soaking helps remove some of the indigestible sugars that cause gas and makes the beans easier to digest.
2. Use digestive enzymes: Digestive enzymes [2] such as alpha-galactosidase can help break down the complex sugars in beans, reducing gas production. These enzymes are available in supplement form and can be taken before meals.
3. Add herbs and spices to the cooking water: Adding herbs and spices such as cumin, coriander, and fennel to the cooking water can help reduce gas production by promoting better digestion. These spices contain natural digestive enzymes that can break down the indigestible sugars in beans.
4. Gradually increase intake: Increasing the amount of beans in your diet can help your body adjust to them over time, reducing gas production. Start with small amounts and slowly increase the serving size over several weeks.
5. Choose low-gas-producing beans: Some beans, such as lentils and chickpeas, produce less gas than others, such as black and kidney beans. Choosing these lower-gas-producing beans can help reduce gas production.

Can The Type Of Bean Affect Gas Production?

Yes, the type of bean can affect gas production. Some beans, such as black and kidney beans, produce more gas than others, such as lentils and chickpeas.

This is because beans contain complex sugars that the body has difficulty digesting. 

The more complex the sugar, the harder it is for the body to digest, which leads to more gas production.

“Beans are such a nice, neutral canvas, you can make a big, basic pot of them and then play around with them differently every day.”

– Crescent Dragonwagon, Writer

However, it’s important to note that everyone’s body is different, and some people may have more or less gas production depending on the type of bean. 

Experimenting with different types of beans and observing how your body reacts to them can help you determine which ones work best.

Does Rinsing Canned Beans Reduce Gas Production?

Rinsing canned beans can reduce the amount of gas they produce by removing some compounds that cause gas. 

Canned beans are often pre-soaked, which can help reduce gas production, but rinsing them can further remove some of the indigestible sugars that cause gas. 

However, it’s important to note that rinsing canned beans can also remove some of the nutrients, so it’s best to rinse them lightly. 

Should You Avoid Beans Altogether If You Have Issues With Gas?

You don’t have to avoid beans altogether if you have gas issues. Beans are a nutritious and vital part of a healthy diet, providing protein, fiber, and other essential nutrients. 

Instead, you can try different methods to reduce gas production, such as soaking the beans before cooking, using digestive enzymes, and adding herbs and spices to the cooking water. 

“Eating beans is like savoring nature’s bounty in every delightful spoonful, a humble yet satisfying journey that nourishes the body and warms the soul.”

Eat Pallet Restaurant & Food Advice

Gradually increasing the amount of beans in your diet can also help your body adjust to them over time, reducing gas production. 

It’s also important to note that the amount of gas produced by beans varies from person to person, so it’s essential to pay attention to how your body reacts and adjust your diet accordingly. 

FAQs

Final Thoughts

The claim that putting a potato in beans while cooking can reduce gas production is a common remedy for this issue. However, there is no scientific evidence to support this claim. 

While some people may find that putting a potato in their beans reduces gas, others may not notice any difference. It’s important to note that the potato itself can also be a gas source, and overcooking the potato can break down the starches and worsen the problem. 

Instead, there are many other methods to reduce gas production in beans, including soaking the beans before cooking, using digestive enzymes, and adding herbs and spices to the cooking water. 

References:

1. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/280579
2. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/digestive-enzymes-and-digestive-enzyme-supplements