We burp to release excess gas that builds up in our stomach and esophagus. When we eat or drink, we swallow air along with food and liquid. This air, combined with gases produced during digestion (such as carbon dioxide from carbonated drinks), accumulates in the stomach causing it to stretch. To relieve the pressure, the stomach forces the gas back up through the esophagus and out of the mouth as a burp, which is often accompanied by the characteristic sound when the gas passes through the upper esophageal sphincter. Burping is a normal bodily function that helps prevent discomfort from too much gas in the digestive system.
Sometimes burping can be caused or increased by habits like eating or drinking too quickly, talking while eating, chewing gum, smoking, or drinking carbonated beverages. Burping frequency can vary, with people burping between 6 to 20 times a day on average.
In summary, burping is the body's natural way of expelling swallowed air and gas produced by digestion to reduce stomach pressure and avoid discomfort.
