Post-meal walks, or 'fart walks,' improve digestion, relieve gas, regulate blood sugar levels, and support a healthy gut microbiome. They also help lower the risk of prediabetes and diabetes by reducing blood sugar spikes.
Walking after eating helps muscles absorb glucose from the bloodstream, reducing blood sugar spikes. This process occurs without relying solely on insulin, easing the pancreas's workload and lowering the risk of insulin resistance.
Even a short walk of two to five minutes can help regulate blood sugar, though longer walks, such as 15 minutes, provide more significant benefits. Casual walking at a moderate pace is sufficient for digestion and blood sugar regulation.
Chair aerobics, arm pumping, light upper body resistance training, or marching in place can provide similar benefits to walking. The key is to engage muscles to help absorb glucose and aid digestion.
The optimal time is within 30 minutes after eating, as this is when glucose from the meal enters the bloodstream. Walking after dinner is particularly beneficial, as it is often the largest meal of the day.
Walking after dinner jumpstarts digestion, prevents discomfort from a full stomach, and regulates blood sugar levels, which can lead to more stable energy and better sleep. It also promotes relaxation and improves circulation.
Post-meal walks to release gas, called 'fart walks,' have become popular on social media. NPR health correspondent Maria Godoy says the science is solid on this trend. She shares the many health benefits of walking after eating: better digestion, more balanced blood sugar levels and a healthier gut microbiome.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices)NPR Privacy Policy)