Transition Artist

How do we know exactly how much we need to eat? How do we measure it? According to Maimonides, we need to eat but not be completely full. When we eat and feel full, our stomach stretches beyond its original size. 

What is the problem with that? After all, our stomachs are elastic. Maimonides explains that every organ that stretches weakens. The cells that cover the walls of the stomach secrete acid and digestive enzymes that begin to break down the food into small particles so they can be absorbed into the bloodstream. If we eat until we are full and more, the stomach stretches beyond its original size. The stomach will be full of food, and those acids and enzymes secreted from the stomach walls will not be able to reach the food in the center of the stomach, preventing the food from breaking down completely. Just like a balloon that is blown to its fullest, unbroken foods do not get absorbed and can be toxic to the body.

The stomach is coated from the outside with a double layer of ring-like muscles that wrap around it. As soon as there is food in the stomach, they start to contract so there is contact between each food particle and the acid and digestive enzymes, facilitating breakdown. When the stomach is completely full, it has difficulties contracting, disrupting the mixing of the stomach contents. Thus, there is no contact between the food and the acid and enzymes, causing the food to arrive at its next station without being fully broken down. Food that is not broken down is partly toxic, and our body does not absorb its essential nutrients.