Why does the stomach make a "growling" sound?

I'm not even hungry, but I hear that sound in my stomach: 'growl, gurgle'... What is this sound coming from my intestines?

It can happen to anyone, but sometimes it may be an abnormal contraction of the intestines.

When the intestines contract abnormally, a rumbling sound may occur in the abdomen.

It's natural to feel embarrassed when your stomach makes growling sounds suddenly during an important meeting or a first date.

Why does our stomach make growling sounds when we're hungry?

According to the American health and medical media 'Prevention,' the sound that occurs when you are hungry is called 'intestinal gas sound (boromyeong).' Experts say, "This is mainly caused by muscle contractions in the stomach and intestines, which help move food through the digestive tract."

They explained that "when the stomach and intestines are empty, muscle contractions can produce noise as they push air, liquids, and small amounts of solid material through the gastrointestinal tract," and added that "stomach rumbling sounds are a normal physiological process, and they happen to everyone; they are simply signals that the digestive system is functioning."

 

Even if you're not hungry, if your stomach makes growling sounds, it could be related to excessive gas movement, indigestion or diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or other gastrointestinal issues. Experts say, "People with irritable bowel syndrome may experience increased sounds from the intestines due to abnormal contractions."

 

How can I reduce the stomach growling sound?

 

The growling sounds from the stomach are beyond our control. However, the methods recommended by experts to minimize the noise are as follows.

 

Maintaining a regular and balanced diet = Keeping a regular meal schedule to stay full can help reduce the growling sounds associated with hunger.

 

Hydration = Drinking enough water can prevent excessive gas and aid digestion.

 

Chewing food thoroughly = Chewing food well helps with digestion. Additionally, it can help avoid making noise.

 

Avoid foods that produce carbonated drinks and gases

Foods rich in fiber, such as carbonated drinks, cabbage, beans, and broccoli, can cause increased gas and stomach noises.

 

When should you see a doctor for a diagnosis?

Generally, there is no need to worry about stomach rumbling sounds. However, if the sounds are unusual or persistent, medical attention may be necessary.

Severe and persistent abdominal pain, frequent diarrhea or changes in bowel habits, unintended weight loss, bloody stool, stomach noises, and other concerning symptoms should be discussed with a doctor.

These symptoms may be due to a fundamental stomach problem that requires evaluation and treatment.