Why do my burps smell like rotten eggs?
Why do my burps smell like rotten eggs? When your burps smell like eggs it can be embarrassing and often concerning. A burping egg taste and smell can be unpleasant, too.
Burps that smell like rotten eggs are usually known as sulphur burps. The foul, rotten egg smell is usually due to hydrogen sulphur gas that is released.
Causes of these smelly burps can vary. Sometimes rotten egg burps are caused by your diet, behaviours or an underlying medical issue. They can also be caused by certain medications, for example, side effects of Mounjaro.
The occasional smelly burp is not usually a cause for concern and often comes from swallowed air, however, if they persist then you should see a doctor.
What are burps?
Burping is normal. It happens when gas builds up in your intestinal tract. Your body needs to remove this gas by burping. A burp is your body’s way of expelling excess air from your upper digestive tract.
Most burps are normally caused by swallowing excess air. The air you swallow plays a role in your burping habits. Sometimes consuming certain food and drink can cause you to burp. Cabbage, broccoli and carbonated beverages can all cause you to burp. The average person will burp around 30 times per day, however, acid reflux can cause you to burp more often.[1]
Why some burps smell like rotten eggs
Burps that smell like rotten eggs come from hydrogen sulphide gas in the gut. When bacteria in the mouth and digestive system break down food, new compounds are formed. Hydrogen sulphide is a by-product of digestion.
The most common causes of sulphur burps
Sometimes sulphur burps can occur due to eating certain foods, meaning your diet can impact the smell of your burps, causing sulphur burps.
Some digestive problems can also cause foul smelling burps that smell like sulphur such as:
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Lactose intolerance
- Celiac disease
Other issues that can cause sulphur burps can include:
Foods to avoid
Proteins such as red meats, poultry, eggs, seafood and dairy products have all been known to cause sulphur burps.
Certain vegetables such as brussels sprouts, broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower and kale are all rich in sulphur compounds. You should also steer clear of pungent vegetables including garlic, onions and leeks.
Try to avoid drinks such as coffee, carbonated beverages and beer to minimise your chances of experiencing sulphur burps.
Cashew nuts and bananas have also been known to trigger sulphur burps.
Everyone's digestive system responds differently to various foods. Once you know the foods that trigger your sulphur burps, you can avoid them to prevent them from happening in the future. It is also recommended that you avoid chewing gum as that can cause you to swallow excess air.
Although sulphur burps can be humiliating, more often than not they are rarely a sign of a serious issue. There are a couple of home remedies that you can try such as green tea, plenty of water and honey.
They are not something to be worried about unless sulphur burping becomes excessive or if they occur with any other symptoms.
A build-up of gas in your body is normal, however, if your sulphur burping becomes an issue then you should visit your healthcare provider for advice on treatments for sulphur burps.
