Burping Too Much? Here’s What Your Body Might Be Trying to Tell You

Burping is a natural bodily function, but frequent or excessive burping could indicate an underlying health problem.

Let’s explore what could be causing your burping and how you can manage it effectively.

A recent study from Osaka Metropolitan University (OMU) surveyed 10,000 Japanese adults online and found that about 1.5% (151 people) experienced significant discomfort due to frequent burping.

Just like flatulence, burping is a normal process. On average, a healthy person produces about 1 to 4 liters of gas daily, releasing it through burping or flatulence around 14 times.

The study revealed that burping disorders are more common among those who frequently consume alcohol or take medications for acid reflux, and the condition is more prevalent in men than in women.

Burping can be more pronounced in those with gastrointestinal problems such as functional dyspepsia or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or in individuals who overeat and don’t chew their food properly.

While drinking carbonated beverages can lead to burping, it does not typically cause significant discomfort in daily life.

The research team conducted this survey to examine the prevalence of burping disorders in Japan and how they relate to underlying health conditions and lifestyle habits. They categorized burping disorders under “duodenal disorders.”

People with burping disorders often report issues related to alcohol consumption or acid reflux, frequently linked to gastrointestinal diseases or thyroid problems.

Eating too quickly or not chewing food thoroughly can also trigger burping.

To prevent and manage burping disorders, the research team suggests several lifestyle adjustments:

1. Cut back on alcohol consumption.
2. Seek timely treatment for gastrointestinal conditions like functional dyspepsia or GERD.
3. Address thyroid disorders and focus on proper chewing. Aim to chew each bite 30 to 50 times, and avoid eating too quickly.

Professor Yasuhiro Fujiwara, the study’s lead author from the Department of Gastroenterology, commented that treating burping disorders is lengthy, and only a few hospitals specialize in their treatment. He also mentioned that future research could involve assessing the impact of chewing frequency and eating habits on patients with burping disorders, which might lead to developing self-management treatment methods.