Here’s Why You Should Walk After Meals
Ever feel sleepy or bloated after a meal? You’re not alone. But instead of sitting or lying down, try taking a short walk.
Here’s Why You Should Walk After Meals
Ever feel sleepy or bloated after a meal? You’re not alone. But instead of sitting or lying down, try taking a short walk.
Just a few minutes can help with digestion, steady your blood sugar, and lift your mood. It’s a simple habit that can make you feel better fast.
1. It Helps Move Food Through Your Digestive System
After you eat, your body works to break down and move food through your stomach and intestines. But sitting for too long can slow this process down. According to Prevention Health, walking gently speeds up digestion by encouraging your muscles and organs to move more. It helps reduce common problems like bloating, gas, and constipation.
Health experts say that even just 10 to 15 minutes of slow walking after a meal can help your body process food better. Some people even call it a "fart walk" because it helps release trapped gas and ease pressure in the stomach. Funny name, but it works.
2. It Helps Control Blood Sugar Levels
A recent study shared by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) showed that walking after meals can lower blood sugar spikes, especially after eating carbohydrate-rich food like rice, noodles, or bread. This is important for people with diabetes or those trying to manage their energy levels.
In the study, researchers found that people who walked for 2 to 5 minutes right after eating had much smaller increases in blood sugar compared to those who sat. This is because your muscles use sugar as fuel during movement, which helps balance the sugar levels in your blood faster.
3. It Can Reduce Bloating and Discomfort
We often feel uncomfortable after eating big meals. A short walk can help prevent that heavy, bloated feeling. Gentle movement encourages your stomach and intestines to stay active, which helps with digestion and gas release. According to the New York Post, people who go for post-meal walks say they feel less sluggish and more comfortable afterward.
Plus, walking helps relax the body and calm the nervous system, which plays a role in digestion too. So if you often feel tight or tense after eating, walking can make a real difference.
4. It Boosts Your Mood and Energy
Besides helping your gut, walking after meals can make you feel more alert and positive. Studies show that light physical activity increases endorphins, the feel-good chemicals in your brain. This means you’re less likely to feel sleepy or moody after eating.
Especially in Malaysia’s hot weather, consider walking indoors or in shaded areas right after a meal. Even walking around your house or at the mall works just as well.
Starting Your Post-Meal Walk Habit
Wait about 5 to 10 minutes after eating before starting
Walk slowly for 10 to 15 minutes
Choose a flat area or path to keep things light
Avoid fast or intense walking that may cause discomfort
Don’t overthink it. Even a walk from your table to the kitchen and back helps
Moving After A Meal
Walking after a meal may seem like a small step, but it brings big benefits. It helps your digestion, lowers your blood sugar, and makes you feel lighter and more energetic. You don’t need a gym or fancy workout clothes. Just your legs, your breath, and a few quiet minutes.
The next time you finish your meal, don’t rush to the sofa. Take a short walk instead. Your stomach and your future self will thank you.
Sources:
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