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Experts are shedding light on the significant advantages of a brief walk after meals, emphasizing its positive impact on digestion, blood sugar management, and overall well-being.
Walking has long been celebrated as one of the most effective forms of exercise, and its benefits have only become more apparent over the past decade. While the act of walking itself is beneficial, timing is also crucial. Many health specialists advocate for a post-meal stroll to maximize these benefits. To delve deeper into this topic, we consulted Sarah Pope, a personal trainer at Life Time Clarendon, who provided insightful details on the subject.
One of the primary advantages of walking after a meal, as highlighted by Pope, is the regulation of blood sugar levels. This is particularly crucial for individuals dealing with certain health conditions. “It’s especially important for those with diabetes,” she explains. “A walk after eating is most effective in helping manage blood sugar levels.”
Regulation of Blood Sugar
Additionally, Pope points out that post-meal walking aids in digestion. “Taking a walk after meals signals to our bodies that it’s time to kickstart the digestive process,” she notes. This simple habit not only supports our digestive system but also enhances our overall health.
Digestion
Digestion is another benefit of taking steps after you eat. “Walking after meals helps in letting our bodies know we are ready for the digestive system to do its thing!” she says.
Increased Circulation
Increased circulation is another reason to walk post-meal. “Long periods of sitting or, most importantly, sedentary behavior are known to place individuals at higher risk for multiple health conditions. Some include vascular dysfunction, increased blood pressure, and decreased proper circulation,” Pope says. “Focus on light, brief, manageable movement post meals to help lower these risks.”
Lowers Blood Pressure
Walking after you eat can help lower blood pressure. “Hypertension is one of the leading causes of heart disease and stroke. Walking after meals helps filter blood and support proper circulation. Which, in return, will help in how our hearts pump blood throughout the body, decreasing the amount of glucose found in our bodies,” she says.
Post-meal movement also increases metabolism, burning more calories. “Walking helps rev up our metabolism and hinders the amount of stored glucose post-meals! Burning calories and increasing your metabolism will also help reduce stored belly fat,” Pope maintains.
Better Sleep Quality
And, movement after meals can result in better sleep quality. “Helps in aiding someone falling asleep more comfortably and shortly after their head hits the pillow,” she says.
Mental Health and Mood Boosting
Lastly, it can help improve mental health and boost your mood. “Reduces the risks of depression. Around 2-2.5 hours of walking per week is shown to decrease depression in adults by 25%. Physical activity, such as walking, is an overall mood booster! 15-20-minute walks 5x a week can help reduce mental health conditions,” Pope says.
