Excessive Belching

The natural process of expelling air accumulated in the stomach, through the mouth, is called belching. It is a well-coordinated action of the human body, as it restricts exit of other stomach contents, while releasing the gas. Belching is not confined to any particular group of people. It can occur in kids, adults, and even in infants. Belching reduces stomach distention.

Belching in public may cause embarrassment, if it is accompanied with a typical sound and foul odor. Excessive belching is also a cause of concern. Belching may not always be due to excess gas in the stomach. In some cases, it could be a symptom of underlying medical conditions.

Aerophagia: The first and foremost cause of excessive belching is swallowing air. You tend to swallow air while eating quickly, sucking candies, and drinking fluids using straw. Chewing gums and smoking increase the possibility of swallowing air into the stomach.

Gastroparesis: This medical condition is characterized by delayed gastric emptying, due to weakened stomach muscles. So the ingested food stays in the stomach for a longer time. Presence of undigested food in the stomach for a long duration causes nausea and excessive belching.

Intake of Certain Foods: It is believed that chocolates and onions consumed in large amounts, cause belching. Avoid foods that are rich in fiber, sugars, and starch; alcohol; carbonated drinks, etc. Beans, cabbage, lentils, apricots, sprouts, bananas, peas, dairy products, etc., are some of those food items that may cause excessive gas and belching.

Apart from these common causes, medication like laxatives and pain killers may also contribute to this condition. Other causes include medical conditions like gastritis, lactose intolerance, and peptic ulcers. Excessive belching is also seen in some people with nervousness and anxiety.

If the condition is caused by an underlying medical condition, the latter has to be diagnosed and treated at the earliest. Otherwise, certain lifestyle changes and natural remedies are enough for relief.

• Try to eat slowly, with your mouth closed.
• Stop taking aerated drinks, and avoid drinking fluids using straw.

• Avoid chewing gums and cigarettes. Consume probiotic foods like yogurt.
• Include ginger in your diet, as it boosts digestion. You may also have a cup of ginger tea for relief from belching.
• Reduce intake of fruits and vegetables. Avoid alcohol, especially if you are suffering from chronic excessive belching.

• Reduce intake of milk and sugar as they may worsen belching.
• Soak a teaspoon of fenugreek seeds in a glass of water for 6 to 8 hours. Filter the water out and drink it on empty stomach, daily.

• Take a glass of water, and mix a teaspoon of lemon juice along with 2 to 3 drops of apple cider vinegar. Drink it before meals as it boosts the digestive process and reduces formation of acids.

Excessive belching can be relieved with these home remedies. If there is no relief, consult your healthcare provider, who is the best person to diagnose and treat the condition, and the underlying medical problem, if there is any.

Disclaimer: This Story is for informational purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice. Visiting your physician is the safest way to diagnose and treat any health condition.