Passing gas may not be a topic most people discuss openly, but it is a completely normal bodily function. If you've ever wondered how many times a day is considered "normal" when it comes to farting, a recent social media post by Hyderabad-based Apollo Hospitals neurologist Dr. Sudhir Kumar has provided an evidence-based answer.
Sharing findings from a large Australian study on X (formerly Twitter), Dr. Kumar highlighted data collected from more than 6,400 participants, making it one of the most comprehensive studies on flatulence frequency conducted so far.
Average person farts 5 times a day
According to the study, the average person passes gas about five times per day. Researchers analysed data from 6,416 Australians and found that the mean number of daily flatus releases was 5.0 per day.
While this number may seem lower than many people expect, experts note that gas production varies depending on diet, gut bacteria, digestion, and overall health.
Which age group farts the most?
The research revealed notable differences across age groups.
- People aged 26 to 45 years had the highest average frequency, with 5.2 flatus releases per day.
- Teenagers and young adults aged 14 to 25 years recorded the lowest average at 4.4 per day.
- Those aged 46 to 65 years averaged 5.0 per day.
- Adults aged 66 years and above averaged 4.8 per day.
The findings suggest that middle-aged adults tend to pass gas slightly more frequently than younger or older individuals.
Men fart more often than women
The study also found a significant difference between genders.
Men: 5.2 flatus releases per day
Women: 4.8 flatus releases per day
Researchers reported that men experienced a slightly higher frequency of flatulence compared to women, although the difference was relatively modest.
What time of day are people most likely to fart?
One of the more interesting observations from the study was the daily pattern of flatulence.
The data showed that gas releases gradually increased throughout the day and reached their highest levels during the evening. The peak occurred between 6 pm and 10 pm, a period that also coincided with higher dietary energy and fibre intake patterns.
