London, Dec 13 (IANS): Although it brings embarrassment for you at public places, flatulence can, in fact, be a sign that you are eating healthy food.

According to health experts, passing air frequently is actually a sign of good health as passing air prevents bloating.

"We saw that those who ate whole grains were more flatulent and had several departures of air during the day," lead author Stine Vuholm from the University of Copenhagen, Denmark, was quoted as saying by Daily Mail.

"But those who didn't eat whole grains, felt more bloated and tired during the same period," she added.

A whole grain food means that it contains all the essential parts and naturally-occurring nutrients of the entire grain seed.

In non-whole-grain foods, the husk and other parts of the grain, which contain fibre and vitamins, are removed.

In the current study, researchers recruited 75 participants to analyse the effects of whole grains on the gut.

Some replaced products with whole grain versions, and were compared against a control group who ate no whole grains.

Those who ate whole grains noticed that their food took longer to pass through the intestines than those limited to wheat.

Vulholm said that more frequent trips to the toilet might not sound enticing but it is actually a sign of good health.

"It may be socially inconvenient, but it's good to get rid of this air. If you can't get rid of gas in the intestine it can cause abdominal pain and make you feel bloated," the researcher said.

Previous research has shown eating whole grains can lower the risk of heart disease, stroke, Type 2 diabetes and can help manage weight.