Sulfur burps are caused by the production of hydrogen sulfide gas in the digestive tract, which has a characteristic rotten egg smell. This gas is produced when bacteria in the mouth and gastrointestinal system break down certain foods containing sulfur compounds
Common causes of sulfur burps include:
- Dietary factors: Eating sulfur-rich foods such as beans, legumes, cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts), garlic, onions, dairy products, alcohol (especially beer), and high-fat or fried foods can lead to increased hydrogen sulfide production and sulfur burps
- Eating habits: Eating too quickly, swallowing air, chewing gum, drinking carbonated beverages, or talking while eating can increase gas and contribute to sulfur burps
- Gastrointestinal conditions: Several digestive disorders can cause sulfur burps, including gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel diseases (Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis), Helicobacter pylori infection, and food poisoning or bacterial infections
- Medications: Some medications, such as GLP-1 receptor agonists used for weight loss and diabetes (e.g., Ozempic, Wegovy), can slow digestion and cause sulfur burps as a side effect
How sulfur burps occur:
Hydrogen sulfide gas forms when gut bacteria break down undigested food containing sulfur. Normally, gas is odorless, but when hydrogen sulfide is produced in excess, it causes the distinctive sulfur smell in burps
Summary:
Sulfur burps result mainly from the breakdown of sulfur-containing foods by bacteria in the digestive tract, but they can also indicate underlying digestive issues or medication side effects. If sulfur burps are frequent or accompanied by other symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea, or nausea, medical evaluation is recommended
