Belching, also called burping, refers to the emission of intestinal gas. Belching is a normal body process and rarely cause for alarm. According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, or the NDDIC, most people pass 1 to 4 pints of gas daily through belching or flatulence. Numerous factors may contribute to belching, including dietary behaviors and illness. Severe, persistent belching and belching accompanied by additional symptoms should be addressed by a qualified medical professional.
Swallowed Air
Swallowing air is common while eating or drinking. According to the NDDIC, swallowed air is a leading cause of intestinal gas and belching. Excessive amounts of swallowed air--caused by such things as eating or drinking too quickly, drinking carbonated beverages or beer, chewing gum, wearing loose-fitting dentures, and smoking--may increase gas in the intestinal tract and trigger additional belching. Some individuals swallow excess air as a nervous habit while drinking or eating, particularly during times of heightened anxiety or stress.
Breakdown of Undigested Food
Since the small intestine lacks various enzymes that support digestion of sugar, fiber and starches, the body moves these foods in undigested form to the large intestine. Once there, healthy bacteria break down the food, meanwhile producing gas. While much of this gas leaves the body through the rectum in the form of flatulence, according to the NDDIC, it may cause belching in some people. Foods associated with this process include legumes, sugar alcohols and dairy products in people with lactose intolerance.
Medical Conditions
Chronic belching may derive from numerous medical conditions. According to the Mayo Clinic, chronic belching may stem from peptic ulcers; gastritis, which is the inflammation of the stomach lining; or gastroparesis, which is the delayed emptying of the stomach. Belching and gas may also accompany irritable bowel syndrome, acid reflux and gastroesophageal reflux disease. In some cases, people with frequent digestive symptoms, such as pain or bloating, develop the habit of forcing air from the stomach through belching in an attempt to relieve the discomfort.
