What is the authenticity and meaning of the Hadith: "The believer eats in one intestine, and the disbeliever eats in seven intestines"?

The Hadith (definition), "The believer eats in one intestine, and the disbeliever eats in seven intestines," is authentic. Scholars have differed regarding its meaning. Some have said that it is a parable illustrating the believer's asceticism in this world and the disbeliever's eagerness for it. Others have said that the believer eats what is lawful while the disbeliever does not restrict himself to it. It has also been said that the intent is to encourage the believer to eat little, and that excessive eating is a characteristic of disbelievers. It was also said that the Hadith pertained to a specific individual and was not meant generally.

Among the interpretations also is that the Hadith was expressed in a غالب (preponderant) and exaggerated manner, and that the believer eats less due to being preoccupied with worship. It was said that "the believer" here refers to one with complete faith. It was also said that the believer invokes Allah's name, so Satan does not share with him. It was also said that the "seven" in reference to the disbeliever denote blameworthy characteristics, and the "one" in reference to the believer signifies satisfying his need. It was also said that the desires for food are seven, all of which the disbeliever consumes from, while the believer consumes only what is necessary.

The summary of these interpretations is that most of their meanings refer back to encouraging moderation in eating and contentment with what is lawfully available in this world.