General information, not medical advice
This page is educational and does not replace guidance from your licensed provider or pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change any medication or supplement without talking to them first.
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.
When to contact your provider
Contact your provider if you have:
- Sulfur burps together with severe abdominal pain.
- Persistent vomiting or diarrhea.
- Signs of dehydration: dizziness, dark urine, or dry mouth.
- A fever.
- Symptoms lasting more than a few days despite dietary changes, or an inability to keep food down.
For severe abdominal pain, chest pain, trouble breathing, signs of an allergic reaction, or confusion, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.
References
- 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/
- 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/
- 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/