Researchers have found that going for a short walk of 10-15 minutes post meals not only benefits the digestion process but also helps in maintaining healthy blood sugar levels. Walking post meals have been found to increase the rate at which food particles move through the stomach. In most cultures post meal drinks like tea, a coffee or light liqueur is served to promote digestion. Recent studies published on post meal drinks have found no effect of such beverages on the digestion process.
Blood sugar typically rises and then falls after eating, but large spikes and variations can raise cardiovascular risk and potentially signal diabetes. 15 minutes of walking post dinner can help lower after meal blood sugar levels especially in people with type 2 diabetes. Read to know 9 wonder foods for diabetes.Overweight adults with a sedentary lifestyle can manage their blood sugar levels and weight by some extent, just by walking post meals instead of watching television or lying on the couch.
Best way to do is give a gap of about 20 minutes to half an hour before going for a walk. 10-15 minutes of light walking is ideal post major meals. Avoid walking immediately post meals as it may result in acid reflux or indigestion.
Walking post dinner also helps as a sleep inducer and makes you sleep faster and deeper.
Fun ways to make walking a habit
- Make an office walking group: It can be a group of 2 or 5 of your work place companions or family members, if at home.
- Add little incentives that will help form the habit.
- If weather does not permit or you cannot find an outside suitable location, choose stairwell, mall or an indoor track to walk.
Small practices followed on daily basis can bring remarkable, positive changes to your overall health. Remember to walk post your meals.