What do stomach sounds mean and how to stop them?

Bowel sounds, known as borborygmi, are sounds produced within the large and small intestines during the digestion process. Although they are normal, they can be a sign of a medical condition.

These sounds are a natural and expected part of the human body’s digestive function, although they can vary in frequency and intensity. However, constant or unusually loud grunting, as well as a complete absence of abdominal sounds, may signal underlying problems that require medical attention.

The stomach growls due to the passage of food, liquids, digestive juices and air through the intestines. One of the most common reasons for these growls is hunger.

According to an article published by the Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinics of North America, When a person is hungry, The brain releases hormone-like substances that trigger the desire to eat and sends signals to the intestines and stomach.This process activates the muscles of the digestive system, which contract and cause the characteristic sounds.

After eating, the abdomen may continue to rumble as the intestines process the food consumed. The walls of the gastrointestinal tract, composed primarily of muscle, contract to mix and move food through the intestines in a process known as peristalsis.

Peristalsis not only facilitates digestionbut it also generates the noises heard after eating. In addition, it can occur several hours after a meal and, in some cases, even at night while sleeping.

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Classification of abdominal sounds

Abdominal sounds can be classified into three categories: normal, hypoactive, and hyperactive.

Normal sounds: They mean that the intestines are functioning properly.

Hypoactive sounds: indicate a decrease in intestinal activity.

Hyperactive sounds: They are stronger and related to an increase in intestinal activity. These can occur after eating or during episodes of diarrhea.

Although occasional hypoactive and hyperactive sounds are normal, frequent variations, Along with the presence of other unusual symptoms, they may be an indication of a more serious medical problem.

Bowel sounds, on their own, are usually not worrisome. However, The presence of other symptoms along with abdominal noises may suggest an underlying problem with digestive health. These symptoms include:

Excess gas

Fever

Nausea

Vomiting

Frequent diarrhea

Constipation

Bloody stools

Persistent heartburn

Sudden and unintentional weight loss

Constant feeling of fullness

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How to reduce them?

For normal stomach growling, treatment is usually not required. However, some tips can help reduce the frequency and intensity of these sounds:

Drink water: Drinking water can help calm a rumbling stomach and aid digestion. It is important to drink slowly to avoid swallowing air, which can cause more rumbling.

Eat something: A small meal or snack can calm a growling stomach. Establishing a regular meal schedule can also be helpful.

Chew slowly: Digestion begins in the mouth. Chewing food thoroughly reduces the amount of air swallowed and facilitates more efficient digestion.

Limit sugar, alcohol and acidic foods: These can trigger digestive noises. Alcohol also increases acid production and can cause inflammation in the stomach.

Avoid foods and drinks that cause gas: Foods such as beans, broccoli, beer and soda can increase gas production and bowel noises.

Control portions: Eating smaller, well-chewed portions reduces the risk of indigestion and stomach rumbling.

Keep active: Walking after eating speeds up digestion and can reduce stomach rumbling.

Stay calm and reduce stress: Anxiety can increase intestinal activity. Techniques such as meditation and deep breathing exercises can help reduce stress and, therefore, digestive noises.

Treating gastrointestinal problems: If stomach noises are accompanied by other symptoms, it is important to consult a doctor.