Stomach noises such as rumbling or gurgling are termed borborygmus. These noises are caused by the production and movement of gas in the alimentary canal (colon). Sometimes this can heard by others which can cause a bit of embarrassment. Some people will also complain of other accompaining digestive complaints such:
- bloating, constipation, burping, reflux, indigestion or flatulence
Stomach bloating is a symptom of insufficient digestive processes, decreased liver function and inadequate digestive enzymes. When we ingest foods we produce enzymes in the mouth and stomach which break down the foods and help us to absorb nutrients. If food matter is not digested properly it can begin to ferment and this produces gas that often results in a gurgling and a bloated stomach. Improving the effectiveness of our digestion and levels of digestive enzymes helps to break down the foods we have eaten in to smaller particles. This means that the digestive processes are much easier for our bodies and results in better assimilation and excretion without resulting in putrefication and fermentation.
SYMPTOMS OF POOR DIGESTION
- stomach bloating
- reflux
- indigestion
- burping
- flatulence
- borbygmus
- constipation
- diarrhea
- alternating bowel habits
- food in the stools
- heaviness after meals
DIET TIPS FOR STOMACH GURGLING
- Reduce foods which cause fermentation such as sugar, dairy, alcohol and yeasts
- Excessive consumption of raw garlic can cause burping in some individuals
- Eat more bitter foods in your diet such as lemon juice, green bitter lettuces (rocket, endive, raddichio, kale) as these contain enzymes and stimulate the secretion of bile and digestive enzymes
- Begin each day with a glass of warm water and lemon juice to help stimulate digestive secretions, liver detoxification and bowel cleansing and movement
LIFESTYLE FACTORS FOR STOMACH GURGLING
- Try not to drink large amounts of liquids before and after a meal (20 minutes each way) as this can dilute digestive enzymes and contribute to inadequate break down of the stomach contents
- Dont eat when you are feeling stressed
- Address underlying digestive issues (liver congestion, indigestion, reflux, low hydrochloric acid, bloating, Candida)
- Dont overeat, especially if you have limited digestive capabilities
- Excessive food intake places a strain on the organs of digestion and slows down the process which may often result in a bloated stomach and feelings of discomfort
- Low hydrochloric acid production means that the digestive process is hindered and the stomach contents may turn rancid and produce gas
NATURAL REMEDIES FOR STOMACH GURGLING
- Probiotics help to ensure adequate amounts of digestive flora and reduce fermentation
- A bitter herbal supplement before meals may help to promote digestion such as Apple cider vinegar, Swedish bitters or Gentian, Meadowsweet, Picorhiza, Atractylodes, Cardamom, Fennel, Aniseed, Peppermint, Chamomile, Ginger, Tumeric, Radish seed and Citrus peel
- Apple cider vinegar used on meals or taken in a small glass of warm water before meals helps to promote digestive function
