There are alot of things we do after meals that we never knew are unhealthy. Here's a list of things we do after eating that's actually bad for our health. Read on to check if you are a victim of wrong practice.
1. Do not drink cold water
Although water is essential for proper digestion, drinking chilled water immediately after a meal leads to clumping of food, thereby hampering the process. If digestion was like fire; cold water is like an extinguisher.
2. Running immediately after a meal is not recommended either
Having a full tummy followed by a run can lead to cramping and digestive issues. You might also feel sluggish.
3. Smoking post meal is a bad idea
I wonder, what makes people smoke despite the warning messages on cigarette packs. Smoking is harmful, regardless of the time. However, when done right after a meal, the damage is more intense. Smoking after a meal is said to worsen the irritable bowel syndrome and also cause ulcerative colitis.
4. Do not think of hitting the bed right after you have dined
Oh yes, the urge to take a short nap, post meal is irresistible. But, it is advisable to fight it instead of giving in to it. Sleeping immediately after eating results in heartburns, snoring and sleep apnea.
5. Taking fruits post meal is a bad idea too
Fruits when consumed after a meal, tend to just sit along with the food. Instead of being processed, they decompose in the stomach and may produce gas. Prefer them before your meals.
6. Say no to tea just after a meal
Although there are conflicting opinions on drinking tea right after meals, as per a few studies, tea contains phenolic compounds which inhibit the absorption of iron in the body. However, some studies suggest that drinking tea aids in digestion by reducing the chances of gas formation. It's good to opt for green tea, herbal teas or ginger tea after your meals, in case you want to go with the latter.
7. Do not relax your tummy
Loosening the belt makes room for the intestines to twist. Not sure, how bad it is for your intestines, but it definitely is a sign that you've eaten a lot more than was necessary, which in short, is bad.
8. Excess of water is also bad
According to studies show that having too much water after food severely hampers digestion by diluting the essential gastric juices and causes an upsurge in insulin levels.
9. Thinking of taking a shower - is totally wrong
If you take a shower right after your meal, the blood tends to rush to the skin to regulate the temperature of the body. This results in digestive problems. Spare the urge for at least thirty minutes after a heavy meal.
10. Don't be surprised, but walking after meals isn't a good idea
Despite all the benefits of walking, you will be surprised to know that it is actually a bad idea to do after meals, as it leads to acid reflux and indigestion. Wait for at least half an hour post meals in order to prevent acid reflux and stomach upsets.
11. Don't think of swimming on a full stomach
Swimming is not advisable after you've had a full meal. If you do hop into the water right after you eat, you could develop cramps and risk drowning.
12. Stay away from alcohol for a little while after meals
When alcohol is mixed with food, it takes longer to absorb compared to an empty stomach. If you drink before a meal, it might result in a full stomach that puts out fewer 'fill me' signals.
13. Brushing is important but not immediately after food
Post meals, especially highly acidic foods, the teeth are susceptible to damage. You are actually posing a threat to your enamel when you brush your teeth in this weakened state. Rinse your mouth after every meal but give a break of at least an hour before brushing.
14. It's not just drink & drive, stay away from eating and driving too
Not sure how practical it would be to abstain from driving, but try hard to wait for at least thirty minutes or so before you hit the wheel. Post meals, the blood supply to the digestive tract increases. Consequently, the supply to the brain is affected, thereby affecting your ability to concentrate. For more focus and concentration, wait for a while.
15. Reading too isn't preferred
Just as you need more focus and attention while driving, reading demands concentration too.
16. Do not work out
The body needs a little time for digesting food before you can work out. Working out immediately after a meal disrupts the digestive process. A quick workout session might cause vomiting, stomach puffiness, and loose motions.
Very well written post. Taking bath agter meal was the thing i was trying to do yoday . But i didnt thing about this bad consequence .