Published on: 3/5/2025
Feeling full when you haven't eaten can happen with some common stomach problems that make your belly feel heavy or bloated, even if your tummy is actually empty.
Sometimes, your stomach can feel full even without eating. This feeling can happen because of a condition called functional dyspepsia, where the stomach does not work the way it should. In functional dyspepsia, you may feel full or bloated after eating only a little or even when you haven't eaten at all. Another cause is gas buildup, which can make the stomach stretch and send signals of fullness. In some cases, the muscles in the stomach and intestines may not move food and air along as quickly as they should, causing a delay or blockage in normal movement. This can happen even when your stomach is not filled with food. Stress can also change the way your stomach works and make you feel full. These issues are usually not dangerous, but they can be uncomfortable. Talking with a doctor can help you understand why you feel this way and decide on ways to help your stomach feel better.
(References)
Iovino P, Bucci C, Tremolaterra F, Santonicola A, Chiarioni G. Bloating and functional gastro-intestinal disorders: where are we and where are we going? World J Gastroenterol. 2014 Oct 21;20(39):14407-19. doi: 10.3748/wjg.v20.i39.14407. PMID: 25339827; PMCID: PMC4202369.
Lacy BE, Cangemi D, Vazquez-Roque M. Management of Chronic Abdominal Distension and Bloating. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2021 Feb;19(2):219-231.e1. doi: 10.1016/j.cgh.2020.03.056. Epub 2020 Apr 1. PMID: 32246999.
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