Q. What causes exceptionally stinky flatulence a few hours after strenuous exercise, and what can be done about it?
Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.
The main culprits are the products of protein digestion. When you exercise, your body breaks down muscle protein into its constituent amino acids. These amino acids are then used to rebuild muscles and other body tissues. Some of these amino acids are converted into ammonia, which is a smelly compound.
You can reduce the smell of your farts by eating more slowly so that your stomach has more time to digest food properly, and by avoiding high-protein foods before exercise. You might also want to try taking a digestive enzyme supplement before you exercise. These supplements help to break down proteins into their component amino acids, so they're less likely to cause smelly farts.