Many of us may have experienced the interesting phenomenon where the stomach looks slimmer and flatter in the morning, but then looks more distended over time. There are several factors that can explain why this is happening. Let’s explore some of the scientific explanations behind this phenomenon.

Lack of Food and Fluid Intake

When we sleep, we usually don’t eat or drink for several hours. Therefore, our body has time to digest the food and fluids consumed before going to bed. During this process, the body can get rid of excess fluids and flatten the stomach. When we wake up in the morning, the abdominal tends to be slimmer because there is no new intake yet.

Recovery of the Stomach Digestive System

During sleep, our digestive system also rests. The process of digesting food and processing nutrients requires energy and can cause the stomach to look distended. When we sleep, the body has the opportunity to recover and restore the digestive system, which can result in a flatter abdominal in the morning.

Posture During Sleep

Our sleeping position can also affect how your stomach looks in the morning. When we lie flat on our backs, the abdominal tends to be more even because there is no pressure or gravity to interfere. However, during daily activities, especially when sitting or standing, gravity will pull down on the abdominal and make it look more distended.

Bowel Movement

During sleep, bowel movements may slow down, which can cause the stomach to appear slimmer in the morning. However, once we wake up and start moving, bowel movements can increase, resulting in a belly that looks more distended.

Stomach Muscle Stretch

When we wake up, the stomach muscles will probably feel more relaxed and less tense. This can result in the appearance of a slimmer stomach. However, as time passes and the muscles become active again, the abdominal can appear more distended.

Stomach looks slimmer in the morning for a number of reasons, including lack of food and fluid intake during sleep, recovery of the human digestive system, posture during sleep, slower bowel movements, and a state of relaxed muscles. However, it’s important to remember that these changes in the appearance of your belly are normal and natural. Focusing on a healthy diet, regular exercise, and hydration balance will be more important than worrying about temporary belly changes.