Sulfur burps get their name from their distinctive rotten-egg smell, which comes from hydrogen sulfide gas the body produces during digestion. While unpleasant, they’re usually harmless and often temporary as your body adjusts to the medication.
Why GLP-1s affect digestion
GLP-1 is a naturally occurring hormone from the gut that regulates how quickly food leaves the stomach and when you feel full. GLP-1 medications mimic the hormone to help people eat less and lose weight. “By slowing digestion, these medicines keep food and stomach acid in the stomach longer, which can lead to gas, bloating or burping,” said Rebecca Dawson, D.O., a weight management physician at Inspira Bariatrics and Weight Management Mullica Hill. “When food sits in the stomach for an extended period, it can release gases containing sulfur, leading to the distinct sulfur burps some people experience.”
When burping is normal and when it’s not
Mild or occasional burping after starting a GLP-1 medication is typically normal, especially as your body adjusts to the treatment. This side effect usually improves after a few weeks or with dosage adjustments. “Frequent, severe or foul-smelling burps with nausea, vomiting, pain or heartburn may signal trouble with stomach emptying—a rare side effect called gastroparesis,” said Dr. Dawson. “This condition occurs when the stomach muscles move food too slowly, causing it to sit longer than normal and leading to symptoms such as bloating, early fullness and discomfort after eating.” Most people on GLP-1s never run into this issue, especially if their doctor increases dosing gradually.
What you can do to minimize burping
These simple steps can ease mild burping or bloating with GLP-1 medications:
- Eat smaller meals: Large meals slow digestion even more. Smaller, more frequent meals can help prevent discomfort and lessen burping
- Skip carbonated drinks: Sodas and sparkling water add gas to your stomach, which can increase burping
- Eat slowly: Eating or drinking quickly increases the amount of air you swallow and the amount of gas you produce
- Limit trigger foods: Fatty, greasy or sulfur-rich foods, such as eggs, broccoli and onions, may worsen your symptoms
- Stay upright after eating: Sitting or walking after you eat and avoiding lying down can help food move through your system
With your doctor’s approval, you may use over-the-counter remedies, such as simethicone or digestive enzymes, to relieve gas.
When to call your doctor
“Reach out to your care team if burping or digestive changes are persistent, uncomfortable or accompanied by vomiting, severe bloating, pain or an inability to tolerate food,” said Dr. Dawson. “These symptoms might signal a complication and should be discussed with your doctor, who may adjust your medication dosage, recommend changes in meal timing or investigate other causes.”
Never stop a GLP-1 medication without talking to your doctor.
Most side effects can be managed with adjustments and support. Sulfur burps can be an unpleasant but often temporary side effect of GLP-1 medications. Knowing when to seek help can make your weight management journey safer and more comfortable. With proper guidance and simple lifestyle tweaks, most can continue treatment successfully and stay on track toward their health goals.