I hate a growling stomach. Well, my own growling stomach, anyway. Other people's grumbling bellies don't bother me at all. When it's mine, though, I want it to stop. Real Simple magazine (August 2008) offers two tips for people like me who wish to silence the screams.

• Eat. Our stomachs are constantly churning, and they churn more when hungry.
• Don't chew gum -- swallowing air only exacerbates the sound.
  
  

And here's my two cents: Carry around portable, healthy snacks wherever you go so you can buy some time between grumblings and mealtimes. Try some popcorn, whole wheat crackers, or a handful of nuts.