What the Burp?

The average individual burps around 3 to 6 times after ingesting or digesting. While everyone burps, if it occurs excessively and is accompanied by symptoms such as heartburn, it may be something more serious – such as GERD.

Burping basics

First things first – what is burping? Burping, or what medical specialists name “belching” is the release of extra air from the belly. We ingest air every time we swallow. The belly cannot cope with all of the air, so approximately seventy-five to eighty percent of it is projected from the belly, through the esophagus and out of the mouth.

What foods and drinks attribute to burping?

Carbonated liquids, alcohol, ingredients, and foods with excessive levels of starch, sugar or fiber can increase burping. Here’s a listing of commonplace meals that can result in common burping:

  • Bananas
  • Beans
  • Broccoli
  • Cabbage
  • Cauliflower
  • Lentils
  • Onions
  • Peas
  • Raisins
  • Whole wheat bread

Additionally, medications commonly used to treat digestive issues such as heartburn can certainly motive more burping, as well as different signs and symptoms. Some common over the counter medicines like Nexium® or Prilosec OTC® can cause bacterial or fungal overgrowth in the small intestine, leading to excessive belching.

Other medications that elicit burping or may cause issues consist of the following:

  • Common type 2 diabetes medicine, i.e. Acarbose
  • Laxatives, such as Lactulose, and Sorbitol
  • Ache medications like Naproxen, Ibuprofen and Aspirin

What is an “ordinary” amount of burping?

The common individual burps round 3 to 6 times after consuming food or beverages. This quantity fluctuates depending on what you ingest.

What if I burp more often than that?

In some cases, excessive burping can be a signal of a gi condition. In the case you are burping an exorbitant amount, irrespective of what you are consuming. Frequent burping can be a symptom of gastroesophageal reflux disorder (GERD) – typically known as heartburn. Other causes can range from ulcers to more severe digestive issues.

How is burping and flatulence related?

Burping is the result of excess air in your upper GI tract while flatulence is air produced in your bowels or excess air in your lower GI tract.

Burping is a regular, healthy occurrence, however, if you experience frequent heartburn, reflux and/or abdominal pain, consult with your gastroenterologist.