Have you ever wondered why your stomach is growling or gurgling, or rumbling? These sounds that your stomach makes can be uncomfortable and embarrassing. But there is always a reason behind these sounds. In this article, we will delve into various reasons behind the noises your stomach makes and what these sounds mean for your digestive health. So, let’s dive in.
Stomach growling for digestion and hunger
It is quite common for your stomach to growl when you have not eaten anything for a while or you are when you are hungry. Same happens when you smell something delicious, like fresh baked dough or cakes. This is your brain sending signals to your stomach for releasing an appetite-stimulating hormone, named ghrelin. This hormone tells your stomach and intestines to contract. Hence, the growl you hear is actually the movement of your organs. That is a signal that you are hungry and you need some food.
But, you may also hear your stomach growling even after your meals. This sound is the result of peristalsis. Peristalsis is actually a process where your muscles contract and try to push the food through your digestive tract. When these contractions happen in your colon and bowel, it makes a gurgling noise. In medical terms, it is called borborygmus.
Impact of certain foods
Your stomach can also make sounds because of certain foods, even if you are not hungry. Some foods like cabbage, cauliflower, kale, peas, cabbage, and lentil can be quite challenging for your digestive system to break down. Hence, they can cause those growling and gurgling noises in your stomach. Besides these, even foods with artificial sweeteners can cause these sounds as it is difficult to digest. These foods can be diet soda, gums, and more. You can determine which foods are causing the stomach noises by monitoring the symptoms after having them. This can help you to know the foods that you need to avoid.
Identify the abnormal bowel sounds
While most of the bowel sounds are quite normal and harmless, some of the high-pitched sounds can indicate an obstruction or other issues. A medical professional often listens to the bowel sounds by using a stethoscope for assessing the normal functioning of the digestive system. If the bowel sounds are too loud along with some concerning symptoms, like nausea, rectal bleeding, diarrhea, and abdominal pain, then it is essential to reach out to a doctor as soon as possible for further evaluation.
Tips to manage stomach noises
In case you are looking for some of the ways to minimize the stomach noises, then here are some of the practical tips for you:
1. Manage your stress
Stress can be a major factor that contributes to increased stomach growling. You have to take some time to relax. Try some of the stress management techniques, such as yoga, meditation, and deep breathing. This can be beneficial.
2. Eat at regular intervals
Having regular snacks and meals can help in regulating your digestive system. This can also prevent excessive stomach noises. So, avoid skipping your means and maintain a consistent eating schedule.
3. Drink water
Staying hydrated is extremely important. So, sip water throughout the day as it can help in digestion and reduce the occurrence of stomach noises. Proper hydration is essential for overall digestive health.
4. Avoid gas-producing foods
As mentioned above some foods can create excess gas in your digestive system. This can lead to increased stomach noises. You must be mindful about such foods and avoid them as much as possible to control the stomach noises.
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5. Eat slowly
Fast eating can contribute to stomach growling. Hence, you need to eat slowly as that can allow your digestive system to process the foods more efficiently. This can also reduce the likelihood of excessive stomach growling. You must chew your food thoroughly while having your meals.
Conclusion
Occasional stomach growling and gurgling is a natural part of your digestive process. So, there is nothing to be worried about in general. But in case the frequency of these noises increases, especially with additional symptoms that are mentioned above, then visit a doctor. Otherwise, the stomach growling is normal though it can be embarrassing. To avoid that, you need to keep the above-mentioned tips in your mind and apply them in your day-to-day life. Eat healthy and stay healthy!