Your stomach is not possessed, even if it sounds like it is auditioning for a horror movie. Those growls, also known as borborygmi, happen when your insides are struggling, working, or simply trying to get your attention. Read on friends to learn more about why fiber may be just what you need.
What is Going On With the Growl?
Source: The Bachelor via giphy
Borborygmi is a Greek word that means to rumble. And that rumbling you hear often produced by the small and large intestines is the sound of muscular waves and shifting contents in your digestive tract. These contractions, called peristalsis, move food, liquid, and gas through your system. Your gut is basically a hollow tube, so any activity inside creates echoey sound effects.
Stomach noises happen when your stomach is empty, when you are digesting food, or when gas and fluid are moving around inside the intestines. Medical News Today notes that an empty stomach produces more noticeable sounds because there is nothing to muffle them. Certain foods, drinks, and even artificial sweeteners can crank up the volume.
Why Your Gut Might Be Shouting Instead of Whispering
Here are the usual suspects when your stomach is louder than your thoughts:
Low fiber and irregular eating
Not enough fiber means your digestive tract may have less bulk to move smoothly. This can lead to irregular movement and more noise.
Gas buildup and trapped air
Talking while eating, drinking through straws, and carbonated beverages all increase swallowed air. This air can amplify gut sounds.
Gas producing foods
Beans, cruciferous vegetables, carbonated drinks, and artificial sweeteners like sorbitol can ramp up gas production.
A mismatch between your microbiome and your diet
If your gut bacteria do not get enough fiber or you suddenly increase your fiber intake, your system can become louder during the adjustment. We always recommend starting slowly with fiber so your body has time to adjust.
Underlying digestive issues
If loud growling comes with pain, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, or weight loss, it might indicate an underlying condition. This may be a warning sign and you should consult your medical provider
Quick Fixes When Your Gut Is Singing a Tune
If you need the rumbling to chill out fast, try these:
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Drink water. This helps move things along and fills the stomach slightly.
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Eat a light snack if your stomach is empty.
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Chew slowly to reduce swallowed air.
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Avoid super gassy foods temporarily.
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Take a short walk to support digestion.
The Bottom Line
Stomach tunes are a sign that your digestive system is doing its job. But if your gut feels more like a live concert than a quiet hum, it may be time to adjust your fiber intake, hydration, eating habits, or overall gut care.
Bonny can help tame the tunes with amazing-tasting fiber with Fiber Bites in Cocoa and Very Berry and prebiotic fiber powders in Mixed Ripe Berries and Super Strawberry.
As always, we wish you pleasant poops!
Sources: Centre for Gastrointestinal Health, Medical News Today, and Integris Health
