How do I shut my stomach up in class?

Answered by Stephen Mosley

To silence your growling stomach during class, there are a few strategies you can try. One effective method is to eat a small meal or have a snack before class starts. However, it’s important to choose your pre-class food wisely to avoid making your stomach growl even louder.

When selecting your pre-class meal, opt for foods that are easily digestible and won’t cause excessive gas or bloating. Avoid heavy or greasy foods, as these can take longer to digest and may lead to stomach noises. Instead, choose light and nutritious options such as a small bowl of yogurt, a piece of fruit, or a handful of nuts.

If you prefer something more substantial, consider having a small sandwich with lean protein like turkey or chicken, along with some vegetables. This provides a balanced mix of nutrients and is less likely to cause digestive discomfort.

While it’s tempting to reach for a sugary snack or a caffeine-filled beverage, it’s best to avoid these before class. Sugar and caffeine can stimulate your digestive system and potentially make your stomach louder. Instead, opt for a glass of juice or water to stay hydrated and provide some energy without causing excessive stomach noises.

Another tip to keep your stomach quiet during class is to avoid foods that contain indigestible ingredients. For example, avoid meals that are heavy in pasta or whole-wheat flour, as these can cause gas and bloating. Stick to foods that your body can easily break down and digest.

In addition to choosing the right foods, it’s also helpful to eat your pre-class meal at an appropriate time. Try to have your meal or snack about 30 minutes to an hour before class starts. This allows your body enough time to digest the food before you sit down and minimize the chances of your stomach growling during class.

If you find that your stomach still tends to make noise during class despite your efforts, there are a few tricks you can try to mask the sound. One method is to keep a water bottle with you and take occasional sips during class. This can help drown out any noises your stomach might make.

Additionally, sitting up straight and maintaining good posture can help alleviate any discomfort or noise caused by digestion. Slouching or hunching over can put pressure on your stomach, leading to more noticeable sounds. So, make a conscious effort to sit tall and straight in your chair.

In summary, to quiet your stomach during class:

1. Eat a small meal or snack before class, choosing easily digestible foods.
2. Avoid heavy or greasy foods that can cause digestive discomfort.
3. Opt for light and nutritious options like yogurt, fruits, nuts, or a small sandwich with lean protein and vegetables.
4. Stay hydrated with water or juice, but avoid sugary snacks or caffeine.
5. Avoid foods with indigestible ingredients like pasta or whole-wheat flour.
6. Time your pre-class meal about 30 minutes to an hour before class starts.
7. Take occasional sips of water during class to mask any stomach noises.
8. Maintain good posture and sit up straight to alleviate digestion discomfort.

By following these tips, you should be able to minimize stomach growls and have a more peaceful and focused learning experience in class.