If Your Stomach Grumbles, This Is What It Really Means
Updated: Aug. 13, 2021
Why does my stomach grumble when I'm hungry? This registered nurse has a simple explanation.
You’ve been working all morning without a second thought—until that familiar rumbling starts. Once that unmistakable grumble begins in your stomach, there’s no use in trying to fight it. Suddenly your stomach is the boss, and a lunch break is no longer optional. So what makes your stomach grumble? And what does that noise really mean?
Why Does My Stomach Grumble?
Stomach grumbling, known as borborygmus, is the sound of gas or food particles moving through your digestive tract.
When you eat, your intestines move food and liquid along by contracting and relaxing, a process known as peristalsis. Once the food has been digested, your intestines continue to move air along your digestive tract, creating rumbling sounds.
Stomach grumbles simply mean that you haven’t eaten in a while. Your intestines are always working to move food and air through your body. You’re more likely to hear sounds when you’re hungry because there’s no food in the intestines to muffle the noise.
So there you have it—when you hear stomach grumbles, it just means that there is no food being digested. If you feel hungry, go ahead and enjoy a meal or snack, but just because your stomach is making its presence known does not mean that your body needs a large meal. Listen to your hunger, and eat what you need to feel satisfied.
Once you eat something, you’ll notice the sounds start to quiet down. Even just a quick snack or small meal could be enough to quiet your gurgles.
It’s important to note that a constant rumbling sound may mean that you’re experiencing a chronic gastrointestinal condition such as irritable bowel syndrome. If you also notice frequent bloating, constipation or diarrhea along with the gurgling sound, talk with your doctor.
Healthy Snacks for Serious Grumbles
Chili-Lime Roasted Chickpeas
If you're looking for a lighter snack that's still a crowd-pleaser, you've found the ideal recipe! These addicting, crunchy chickpeas will have everyone munching happily.
Chocolate HummusThis chocolate hummus is a sweet and indulgent twist on the traditional recipe. Plus, it's so easy to make with just a handful of healthy ingredients. Serve with fresh fruit for a simple and delicious snack.
Dried Fruit Energy BarsThese dried fruit energy bars are a wonderful breakfast option, especially for people on the go. They're easy to make ahead and are packed with healthy ingredients such as chia seeds, quinoa and oats, which will keep you fueled throughout the day. Looking for more options? Try these healthy fruit snacks that are made from real fruit and will delight kids and parents alike!
Skinny Quinoa Veggie DipThis veggie dip is loaded with nutrients and a ton of flavor. It may be "skinny" but no one will complain!
Hard-Boiled EggsEat these hard-boiled eggs plain for a quick protein fix. Or add them to another dish to make it heartier.
Cucumbers with DillThese cucumber slices stay crisp thanks to the salt drawing out excess moisture. Snack on these instead of potato chips for a cool, crisp snack.
Healthy Peanut Butter CookiesOnly four ingredients and one bowl are needed for these quick and healthy peanut butter cookies. If you want to make this recipe gluten free, make sure the oat bran was made in a certified gluten-free facility.
For another healthy dessert, this healthy snickers recipe is certainly delicious.
Confetti QuinoaThis quinoa dish is simple to make with just a few ingredients! It's the perfect healthy snack when you want something to hold you over for a longer period of time.
Garbanzo-Stuffed Mini PeppersMini peppers are colorfully vibrant and are the perfect size for a two-bite healthy snack. Plus, they have all the crunch of pita chips but without the extra calories.
Stuffed Asiago-Basil MushroomsThese stuffed mushrooms are delightful healthy snacks that will keep you feeling energized and satisfied throughout your busy day.
Quinoa with Peas and OnionEven picky eaters will love this fresh and vibrant protein-packed snack. The addition of peas and onions is a great choice.
Marinated ShrimpIf you're a seafood lover, this shrimp recipe is for you. Pop a few of these salty and satisfying shrimps in your mouth, and your cravings for junk food will be gone.
Simple GuacamoleTime to start dipping. From crackers to cherry tomatoes, this simple dip will be a healthy snack go-to.
Baked Pot Stickers with Dipping SauceThese cute pot stickers are a wonderful snack that hold a ton of flavor. And the dipping sauce? Insanely finger lickin' good.
Really Good Snack MixYou can't snack correctly without trying this healthy and fun snack mix. It's perfect for long road trips and hikes.
Roasted Eggplant SpreadBlack pepper and garlic perk up this out-of-the-ordinary spread that hits the spot on a crisp crackers, baby carrots and celery sticks.
Black-Eyed Pea Tomato SaladIf you're looking for a more substantial snack, you can't go wrong with this dippable salad. It's great on its own, but even better when you dip some whole wheat crackers into it.
Makeover Deviled EggsThis updated version of a classic appetizer uses only half the egg yolks of the original recipe and calls for soft bread crumbs to help firm up the filling. We replaced the mayo with fat-free mayonnaise and reduced-fat sour cream.
Peach BruschettaAs a starter or light healthy snack, this bruschetta is a wonderful way to hold onto the summer season with fresh peach amid a medley of lively flavors.
Shrimp Salad AppetizersThis refreshing app is also great as a quick snack. The mix of vibrant flavors will keep you feeling satisfied throughout the day.
Green & Gold SalsaEdamame and corn give this unique salsa beautiful color and vibrancy. It's a great healthy alternative to creamy dips.
Chipotle Berry Fruit SalsaNot too hot, but with a bit of a kick, this salsa is a delectable chip dip that everyone will want more of. Just double the recipe and watch it disappear.
Cheesy Cauliflower BreadsticksThese grain-free, cheesy cauliflower breadsticks are made with vegetables instead of flour, if you can believe it. Serve these healthy snacks with your favorite marinara sauce.
Crab Phyllo CupsIf you want more of a kick, dot chili sauce on top of these easy snacks. These cups are sure to please seafood lovers.
Roasted Red Pepper TapenadeThis tangy recipe only takes 15 minutes to whip up before popping in the fridge. The dip is best paired with carrot sticks or some simple crackers.
Herb-Roasted Olives & TomatoesEat these roasted veggies with a crunchy baguette or cheese slices. This makes a beautiful and tasty dip, even on the go!
Mango Avocado Spring RollsThese fun wraps will have you drooling! You can substitute lettuce or spinach for sprouts if you prefer.
Grilled Veggies with Mustard VinaigretteGrilled veggies are a summer favorite. For a quick snack, cut these veggies into bite sized pieces and say goodbye to your unhealthy cravings.
Greek Veggie TartletsThese cute tarts are delicious and packed with veggies. Snack on a couple of these as you sit outside and enjoy the sunshine.
Mango Barley SaladThis fresh, colorful mango salad is a wonderful option if you want something sweet. The bright flavor is perfect for a smart healthy snack.
Yogurt & Honey Fruit CupsThis tasty combo of fresh fruit and creamy orange-kissed yogurt is guaranteed to disappear fast! This snack is sweet without being too rich.
Grilled Zucchini with OnionsWhile you may not think of zucchini as a snack, cut them into bite sized pieces and you'll have a delicious grilled snack that won't make you miss greasy fried food.
Mocha Pumpkin SeedsAny seasoned pumpkin seeds are a great healthy snack, but these chocolatey seeds will curb your desire for something more indulgent.
Originally Published: August 13, 2021
