Causes and prevention tips for stomach growling | Fusion - WeRIndia

Stomach growling, or borborygmi, is a natural phenomenon that occurs during digestion.

It usually results from the movement of food, liquids, and air through the intestines.

Though often harmless, these sounds can sometimes indicate underlying health issues.

The following are the common causes of stomach growling:

Stomach growling is commonly associated with the digestive process. As food and air move through the intestines, the hollow chambers produce noises similar to water flowing through pipes.

Hunger is another frequent cause, signalling that your body needs nourishment.

Additionally, swallowing air while eating or drinking can lead to gas accumulation, which contributes to these sounds.

The rhythmic muscle contractions of the intestines, known as peristalsis, also play a role in creating these noises.

While stomach growling is usually benign, it can sometimes indicate a more serious issue.

Conditions like irritable bowel syndrome, gastroenteritis, or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can disrupt normal digestion, leading to increased intestinal activity and abnormal sounds.

Hypoactive bowel sounds, which are quieter and less frequent, may signal slowed digestion and potential constipation.

On the other hand, hyperactive sounds, which are louder than usual, could indicate conditions like food allergies, ulcerative colitis, or gastrointestinal infections.

Here are the tips to prevent stomach growling

To reduce stomach growling, consider these strategies:

• Small, balanced meals throughout the day can prevent hunger-related growling.
• Drinking 8-10 glasses of water daily supports smooth digestion.
• Avoid swallowing air by chewing food thoroughly.
• Certain intolerances, like lactose, can increase gas and growling.
• Large meals, especially those high in fats and sugars, can exacerbate growling.
• Carbonation introduces gas, leading to stomach noise.
• Stress can disrupt digestion, so consider relaxation techniques like deep breathing and meditation.

While occasional stomach growling is normal, persistent or severe symptoms may require medical attention.

By following these tips, you can minimize discomfort and promote better digestive health.

Image from Pxhere (Free for commercial use / CC0 Public Domain)

Image Published on March 15, 2017

Image Reference: https://pxhere.com/en/photo/1143632