Hunger is a universal experience. Like cars needing fuel, our bodies also require sustenance to perform. But where a vehicle might beep to warn of a low fuel tank, the human stomach prefers to growl, often at the most embarrassing moments. It’s something we’ve all come to accept, but a particular incident got me thinking, “Can’t I stop my stomach from growling, just long enough to grab something to eat?” well, inspiration comes in strange ways, so here I am looking into the science of hunger.
So, what’s with the growling?
First off, the stomach on its own doesn’t make all that noise. The growling, also known as Borborygmi (yep, I had trouble pronouncing it too.) comes from your intestines as well. See, the digestive system never stops working. When there’s food, the intestines contract and relax to move it along, however even without food, they don’t stop—they keep moving air and digestive juices around which creates the all too familiar rumble.
But why does it seem to pick the most inconvenient times to make its presence known? And more importantly, is there anything you can do to quiet it down? It might seem like the stomach has a sixth sense of some kind. In reality, however, it’s all about timing. Stomach growling is simply more noticeable when your digestive system is empty because there is no food to muffle the sound. Add a silent room or an important meeting and there’s really no chance of escaping it.
Can you stop the stomach growling?
Well, kind of. Since the digestive system is always working, you can’t stop the process entirely, the growls are just more noticeable when the space is empty. That said, there are some tricks to quiet it down…just a little.
- Avoid Gassy foods like beans, soda, or anything that adds extra air to your system as these might amplify the growling.
- Shifting positions, sometimes, simply changing your sitting posture or standing can help minimize the sounds.
- Chewing Gum. Believe it or not, chewing gum can fool your stomach into thinking food is on the way, temporarily calming the noise, however, be mindful and get something to eat soon. Fooling the stomach into expecting food means all the digestive acids are ready to work…but on an empty stomach. If you regularly rely on this trick without following it up with actual food, you might irritate your stomach lining over time. Add prolonged hunger and you’re increasing the risk of ulcers—a small but important reminder to listen to your body’s hunger cues.
- Sometimes, sipping some water can help reduce the noise by giving your stomach something to work with.
- Eat something small. If possible, excuse yourself and take a quick snack to calm the digestive muscles. Even a handful of nuts or a banana will do the trick.
While it’s tempting to delay eating during a busy day, skipping meals and prolonged hunger can take a toll on your body. Going too long without food can cause your blood sugar levels to drop, leaving you feeling dizzy, irritable, or fatigued…clear signs that your body needs to refuel.
So, the next time your stomach growls, don’t be embarrassed—stomach growling is a sign of a healthy digestive system. Sure, some people’s growls are louder than others, and yes, your stomach may choose the middle of a silent lecture or a first date to perform its magic…but honestly, what’s life without these little quirks?
