#asktheexperts Hi My son is 3yr 4 m old and past couple of days he has been burping after food or liquid intakes. Any diet changes to get his gut health back to normal?

A. Frequent burping in a 3-year-old after meals could be due to several factors, such as swallowing air while eating, overeating, or digestive issues. Here are some dietary and lifestyle changes to help improve your son's gut health: 1. Smaller, Frequent Meals Serve smaller, more frequent meals instead of larger ones. This can help his digestive system process food more efficiently and reduce bloating. 2. Avoid Gassy Foods Some foods can produce gas or cause discomfort. Consider reducing: Carbonated drinks (like soda or fruit juices with bubbles) Cabbage, beans, broccoli, and onions (which can cause gas in some children) 3. Eat Slowly Encourage him to eat slowly to avoid swallowing excess air. This might help with burping. 4. Hydration Ensure he drinks plenty of water throughout the day, as dehydration can sometimes contribute to digestive discomfort. 5. Probiotic-Rich Foods Add probiotic-rich foods to his diet, such as yogurt, kefir, or fermented foods like sauerkraut (if age-appropriate). Probiotics can support healthy gut flora and digestion. 6. Avoid Overfeeding Be mindful not to overfeed him, as this can lead to bloating and gas. Allow him to stop eating when he feels full. 7. Fruit and Fiber Include more fruits like apples, pears, and berries, and high-fiber foods like whole grains, oats, and vegetables in his diet. These support digestion and prevent constipation. 8. Watch for Dairy Sensitivity If he's consuming a lot of dairy products, try reducing them for a few days to see if that helps. Some children may have difficulty digesting lactose, leading to gas and burping. 9. Keep Track of Foods Monitor which foods might trigger burping and try to avoid them temporarily to see if symptoms improve. If the burping persists or is accompanied by other symptoms like pain, vomiting, or changes in appetite, it would be best to consult a pediatrician for further evaluation.