Will my stomach shrink if I eat less?

Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics

Your stomach doesn't shrink when you eat less. Your stomach can expand to handle a large meal -- up to a certain limit. As food moves on to the small intestine, the stomach goes back to its usual size. When you cut back on your portions, your stomach keeps its normal size even if your appetite isn't as big.

National Academy of Sports Medicine

Your stomach will not shrink if you eat less. Your stomach is very small but has an amazing capability to expand to meet intake levels. If you continually eat large food portions your stomach will accommodate and tolerate large food intake levels. Likewise if you continually eat smaller portions your stomach will not be accustomed to eating large quantities of food, making you feel uncomfortable. Food remains in the stomach for approximately 4-5 hours most of the food contents has emptied from the stomach, at which point the stomach returns to its normal size.

Continue Learning about Fitness

Investment-minded people know one of the best ways to strengthen a long-term financial portfolio is to diversify investments. Investing your money in ...

Eric Olsen

Fitness is a measurable state or condition partially determined by genetics. Health is also a condit...

Reap the benefits of your time at the gym by dodging these workout no-nos.

Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.