Once you have had your meal, the body gets down to breaking down your food and digesting it. When you walk after a meal, it can promote stimulation of the stomach and intestines, causing food to move through more rapidly, thus helping in digestion.
Apart from better digestion, physical activity helps in improving blood flow, increasing our heartbeat, and boosting the production of happy hormones in the body.
According to the American Diabetes Association, a 10-minute walk post-dinner can improve blood glucose levels, as compared to other times during the day. Experts say regular post-meal walks can help lower the risk of insulin insensitivity.
If you go off to sleep after a heavy dinner, it can lead to several health issues including weight gain. Walking after the meal will help boost metabolism and ensure you get enough exercise in and burn off some calories.
In today's fast-paced world, we often don't find time for physical activities. A brief walk in the park or around our apartments post-meal will get those endorphins flowing and lower our stress levels.
You might want to crash immediately after dinner, especially if you have had a long day, but make sure to walk, even if it's for 10 minutes. Otherwise, you may suffer from bloating and even heartburn. A short walk will allow your body to release serotonin. You will feel lighter and sleep much better.
When you walk after eating, it can increase your metabolism. The physical activity ensures that our digestive system is working better, and thus our metabolism gets a boost.
Walking will ensure increased blood circulation, which is essential for the healthy functioning of muscles. As your body pumps more blood, your organs will function better.
Better blood flow means better heart health. Studies have shown regular walks post meals can significantly reduce one's risk of coronary diseases.
Walking helps you sleep well and sleep sooner. So this will prevent craving and unhealthy snacking which happens when you stay awake for long hours post dinner.
Do not overdo post-dinner walks, especially when you are starting out. Start with a 10-minute walk and keep the speed moderate. If you have health issues, check with your doctor.