How Does the Stomach Accommodate for Holiday Overindulgence?
The Expansion of the Stomach
Your waistline isn’t deceiving you — the Grinch’s heart isn’t the only thing growing three sizes this season. After enjoying a delicious holiday spread, your stomach expands by a generous amount to accommodate for that extra helping or two, which would explain the snug pants post-meal.
The Science Behind Stomach Expansion
While the stomach is typically the size of a soda can, it can grow up to the size of a 2-liter bottle of liquid, which is great news for those who want that extra slice of pie.
Dr. Arthur Beyder, associate professor of medicine and physiology at the Mayo Clinic, explained the phenomenon:
"It will quadruple or more in size," he told Live Science. He likened the smooth muscles of the stomach to "a rubber band," due to the muscle’s ability to contract after being stretched over a long period.
"You pull on it and it’ll spring back," he added.
How the Body Handles Large Quantities of Food
This is especially useful when the body ingests a large quantity of food at one time, like at a holiday feast or when eating a snack mindlessly in front of the television.
While competitive eaters might be able to fill their bellies with up to 4 liters of chow, the average person would not be able to achieve that, despite the stomach’s ability to expand.
Post-Meal Care
But if you’re feeling overly stuffed after another helping of turkey or potatoes, Beyder advised against lying down, which can cause acid reflux. Instead, he recommended taking a walk, which Live Science reported can aid in digestion.
Other experts have also advised drinking lots of water after a hearty meal.
Conclusion
The stomach is impressive in that it can expand for a long period of time and snap back to its natural size. So, go ahead and indulge in that extra slice of pie, but be sure to pace yourself and take care of your stomach afterwards.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How big can the stomach expand?
A: Up to the size of a 2-liter bottle of liquid.
Q: What happens to the stomach muscle after expansion?
A: It contracts back to its natural size.
Q: What should I do if I feel overly stuffed after a meal?
A: Take a walk and avoid lying down.
Q: Can I drink water to aid in digestion?
A: Yes, drinking water after a meal can aid in digestion.
