Burping is a health condition that is characterized by the release of excess air from the digestive system. The gas released smells like rotten eggs or sulfur. Excessive gas that enters the digestive system mixes with digestive gases when food is broken down by bacteria and digestive enzymes. The mixture of these gases is then burped back up through the mouth.
Burping occurs when air builds up of gas in the intestinal tract. Burping is normal, but excessive burping could sign a more serious or underlying medical condition. In most cases, air or gas enters through the mouth when someone drinks or eats too quickly. Drinking carbonated drinks like sodas can also lead to gas accumulation in the stomach or digestive tract.
Main Causes of Sulfur Burps
Frequent sulfur burps are mainly caused by diet or behaviors. Some of the behaviors that lead to excessive intake of air include:
- Eating when talking
- Food poisoning
- Eating or drinking quickly.
- Chewing gum
- Overeating
- Drinking carbonated drinks
- Having loose dentures
- Smoking
Certain beverages and foods can also lead to excessive intake of air into the digestive tract. Individuals who are highly sensitive to certain foods might experience strong-smelling burps. Some of the common foods that lead to the build-up of gases in the digestive system include onions, sulfur-rich foods, high-fiber foods, fried foods, cruciferous vegetables, foods containing lactose, among others.
As mentioned earlier, excessive burping is caused by some medications that people take or serious health conditions. These include
- Peptic ulcer diseases
- Prescription drugs
- Gastrointestinal issues like irritable bowel syndrome
- Gastritis
- Indigestion
Potential Remedies for Sulfur Burps
Treatment of sulfur burps involves making dietary changes that can help eliminate unwanted gases from the digestive system.
Green Tea
Green tea is known for its numerous health benefits, like removing toxins from the body and improving digestion. Taking a cup of green tea or peppermint tea helps eliminate bad breath and improve digestion. In general, taking a cup of green tea regularly can improve your overall health and reduce sulfur bumps.
Drinking-Water
Drinking enough freshwater is an effective remedy for controlling sulfur burps. Findings show that water helps protect the stomach from harmful bacteria and eliminate bad breath. Ideally, you should take a glass of water before taking sulfur-rich foods.