Why did Napoleon always hold his stomach?

Answer 1

I've heard 2 different reasons as to why he did this: 1. My college comparative world history professor told me he had something wrong with his arm and it kept shaking so he would tuck it inside his shirt to keep it from bothering the artist. 2. Other sources say he had a stomach problem and he would press on his stomach to relieve the pain. This eventually became a sign of power and others copied him in their portraits, unaware as to why Napoleon did that.

Answer 2

It was a habit like alway having one hand in your pocket.