Sulfur burps are burps that have a foul, rotten egg smell due to the presence of hydrogen sulfide gas. This gas may be a byproduct of digestion or the result of an underlying digestive issue. Sulfur burps can be caused by various factors, including:

• Eating certain foods: H2S is produced when bacteria in the oral cavity and gastrointestinal tract break down food. Certain foods may cause excessive belching or sulfur burps, including beans, legumes, broccoli, cauliflower, brussels sprouts, cabbage, eggs, cheese, whole milk, and beer.

• Excessive alcohol use: Alcohol consumption may disrupt effective digestion in the body and lead to stomach acid reflux, which may influence sulfur burps.

• Large meals: Eating large meals can cause the stomach to produce more acid, which can lead to sulfur burps.

• Bacterial infections: Infections by H. pylori bacteria and the parasite known as Giardia can lead to an imbalance in the gut microbiome that produces excess hydrogen sulfide.

To prevent sulfur burps, it is best to identify the underlying cause. Keeping a journal about your foods and daily habits can be an effective way to isolate the cause of your sulfur burps. If you notice that certain foods are aggravating your condition, you can try removing those foods from your diet temporarily. Reducing alcohol intake, limiting carbonated beverages, avoiding sugary foods, and avoiding large meals can also help prevent sulfur burps. If sulfur burps persist or become excessive, it is recommended to contact a gastroenterologist for further evaluation and treatment.