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What Are the Causes of Belching & Gas?

Everybody burps. Some think it's gross while others see it as complimenting a good meal. A good meal can also cause gas. Whatever everyone's reaction may be, there are many things that trigger belching and gas.

  1. Eating and Drinking

    • The main reason people belch is they eat or drink too quickly. Along with food and drink, they also swallow a lot of air, which then needs to be released.

    Carbonation

    • Carbonated drinks like soda and beer also cause belching because they release carbon dioxide into the stomach.

    Other Causes

    • Other things that cause belching are gum chewing, smoking and bad dentures. They cause extra air to go down into the stomach, which triggers a burp.

    Swallowed Air

    • Swallowed air produces gas in the stomach. The air is a mixture of nitrogen, oxygen and carbon dioxide. This gas is either absorbed into the bloodstream or released through the mouth or rectum.

    Undigested Food

    • Undigested food is another cause of gas. When the undigested food reaches the large intestine, bacteria breaks down the particles, and releases hydrogen and carbon dioxide. Some people also produce methane. Sugars (raffinose, lactose, fructose and sorbitol), starches (except rice) and fibers are the foods that cause gas.

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