Does eating less shrink your stomach?

I often wonder how many arguments have been ended because of a Google search. The actual number is probably in the billions. Google seems to be the great unbiased mediator when it comes to settling disputes. No matter how right you are, it never hurts to have your side backed up with facts!

For instance, I recently was involved in a friendly but animated discussion debating the truth about dieting, eating less, and the stomach. The question: Does eating less shrink your stomach? (By stomach I mean the actual organ in your body, not pot bellies, etc.) Proponents for supporting the stomach shrinkage theory stated they definitely needed less food to feel full after consistently eating less or fasting. Therefore, they concluded the stomach shrunk. Those on the opposing side said that made no sense. After all, the stomach is a muscle and can expand and contract, but does not physically shrink.

So, what did a Google search reveal about shrinking your stomach by eating less?

It is a myth! As was mentioned, the stomach is a muscular organ, and while it will expand to accommodate food, it never stays expanded. The stomach also does not change size and physically shrink because of a lack of food. The only way to actually change the size of your stomach is to opt for surgery, like gastric bypass.

So, what about those who said it took less food to feel full after consistently eating less? They actually have a valid point, but it does not involve their stomach shrinking. When dieting regularly, it is possible to reset your body’s appetite meter, and so you will desire less food, and get full faster.

Now you have the facts about eating less and shrinking your stomach. However, if someone firmly believes this, there may be no reason to burst their bubble. If they are eating less and working at being healthier, then whether there stomach shrinks or not doesn't matter. Making those kinds of positive lifestyle changes will still help them feel better and lose some weight!

Read more from these sources:

Chow.com

SkinnyMyths.com

WebMD.com