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Patient education

Sulfur burps

Burps with a rotten-egg smell are reported by some people on GLP-1 medications. General information on food choices and eating habits that may reduce them, options to raise with your provider, and when to call.

Why it can happen

The smell comes from hydrogen sulfide gas produced as food is broken down. Because GLP-1 medications slow stomach emptying, food sits longer and more gas can form — particularly from sulfur-containing foods.

The symptom is usually harmless, if unpleasant, and many people find it eases with dietary changes. It is worth a call to your provider if it comes with pain, vomiting, or signs of dehydration.

Food choices

Sulfur-rich foods are the most common contributors. Reintroducing them one at a time can show which matter for you.

Often limited

  • Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, and cabbage
  • Onion, garlic, leek, and shallot
  • Large amounts of red meat or eggs
  • Dairy and whey protein, for some people
  • Beer, wine, dried fruit, and some nuts

Often better tolerated

  • Chicken, turkey, and fish
  • Spinach, lettuce, zucchini, carrot, and cucumber
  • Bananas, berries, melon, and apples
  • Rice, oats, and quinoa
  • Tofu and tempeh in moderation

Eating habits

Slow down

Eating slowly and chewing well; talking while eating, straws, chewing gum, and carbonated drinks all add swallowed air.

Smaller meals

Several smaller meals rather than large ones, and staying upright for a while after eating.

Fluids

Water through the day rather than only with meals.

Options to raise with your provider or pharmacist

Ask before trying any of these, and mention every medication and supplement you already take. This page does not give doses.

  • Probiotic foods or supplements.
  • Ginger or peppermint tea (peppermint is often avoided by people who also have reflux).
  • Digestive enzyme supplements.
  • Antacids.
  • Activated charcoal products.

References

  1. Suarez F, Furne J, Springfield J, Levitt M. Insights into human colonic physiology obtained from the study of flatus composition. Am J Physiol. 1997;272(5 Pt 1):G1028-1033. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9176210/
  2. Magge S, Lembo A. Low-FODMAP diet for treatment of irritable bowel syndrome. Gastroenterol Hepatol (N Y). 2012;8(11):739-745. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3966170/
  3. Nauck MA, Quast DR, Wefers J, Meier JJ. GLP-1 receptor agonists in the treatment of type 2 diabetes – state-of-the-art. Mol Metab. 2021;46:101102. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33068776/

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