Burping is a natural bodily function that we all experience from time to time. But let's talk about a particular type of burp known for its unpleasant odour - sulphur burps.
You might have heard them referred to as 'burping eggs' due to the rotten egg smell of the burp. Sulphur burps often occur after consuming foods rich in sulphur compounds, which can trigger gas production in the digestive system. But fear not; there are plenty of ways to make sure those eggy burps don’t make a surprise appearance.
What are the Causes of Sulphur Burps?
Understanding the causes of sulphur burps is crucial for effective treatment and relief. Sulphur burps, characterised by their unpleasant odour, can stem from various underlying factors related to digestive health, including:
Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO): this occurs when the bacteria population in the small intestine increases abnormally, leading to food fermentation and the production of gases like hydrogen sulphide.
Lactose Intolerance: the inability to digest lactose, a sugar found in dairy products, can result in fermentation by gut bacteria, leading to gas production, bloating, and sulphur burps.
Crohn's Disease: this is an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes inflammation of the digestive tract, often affecting the small intestine. This can disrupt normal digestion and lead to sulphur burps.
Coeliac Disease (Gluten Intolerance): is a condition in which the immune system reacts to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. This damages the lining of the small intestine and impairs nutrient absorption, potentially causing sulphur burps, among other symptoms.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome: also known by its acronym, IBS, is a functional digestive disorder characterised by abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits, including sulphur burps, often triggered by certain foods, stress, or hormonal changes.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): chronic acid reflux can lead to the regurgitation of stomach contents into the oesophagus, causing heartburn, belching, and occasionally, sulphur burps due to the presence of stomach acid.
Gut Infections: infections caused by pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, or parasites can disrupt the average balance of gut flora, leading to symptoms like diarrhoea, bloating, and sulphur burps.
Food and Drink-related Causes: certain foods and drinks high in sulphur compounds, such as eggs, meat, and cruciferous vegetables (e.g., broccoli and cabbage), can also cause egg burps. Some beverages, like beer and wine, can contribute to the production of hydrogen sulphide gas in the digestive tract, resulting in sulphur burps.
Sulphur Burps - Treatment
Drink plenty of water and maintain good gut health: Proper hydration is essential if you want to cure your eggy burp. This, with a balanced diet, is essential for digestive health. Drinking enough water and consuming fibre-rich foods, probiotics, and prebiotics can help prevent sulphur burps.
Cut down on alcohol and carbonated drinks: Alcohol and carbonated drinks can irritate the digestive system, leading to increased gas production and sulphur burps. Reducing or eliminating these drinks can help alleviate symptoms.
Consider digestive supplements and herbal teas: Digestive supplements containing enzymes or probiotics can help digestion and reduce gas. Herbal teas like green tea, peppermint, and chamomile can soothe the digestive system, potentially reducing sulphur burps.
Sulphur Burps - Home Remedies
There are plenty of home remedies for sulphur burps that you can try:
Drinking herbal teas: Green tea, peppermint, and chamomile teas possess properties that can aid digestion and soothe the stomach, potentially reducing sulphur burps.
Stay Hydrated by drinking plenty of water: Drinking enough water throughout the day is crucial for maintaining optimal digestive function and reducing the likelihood of experiencing sulphur burps.
Manuka Honey and Apple Cider Vinegar: Manuka honey's antibacterial properties may help protect the digestive lining, while apple cider vinegar can regulate bacterial growth in the gut, making them both effective remedies for sulphur burps.
Sulphur Burps Prevention
Implementing good oral hygiene practices and making dietary adjustments can help reduce the occurrence of sulphur burps.
Chew Slowly: Eating slowly reduces air swallowing, decreasing gas build-up that can lead to sulphur burps.
Dietary Adjustments: Cut down on sulphur-rich vegetables like broccoli and cabbage to minimise gas production.
Check Dentures: Loose dentures can affect chewing and swallowing, contributing to digestive issues. See a dentist to ensure proper fit.
Fresh Breath: Rinse with mouthwash after meals to maintain fresh breath and reduce odour-causing bacteria, which can help prevent sulphur burps.
FAQs About Sulphur Burps
What to do if my burp smells?
If your burp smells, consider making dietary adjustments, staying hydrated, and practising good oral hygiene to alleviate the smell.
Is it normal for a burp to taste like eggs?
While occasional burps may have a slight eggy taste due to sulphur-containing foods, frequent or persistent egg-like burps, also known as sulphur burps, could indicate underlying digestive issues such as small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) or gastrointestinal infections. Consult a healthcare professional if you experience persistent symptoms.