Do this after eating and improve your digestion on the spot
Have you ever felt that heaviness in your stomach after eating? That urge to throw yourself on the sofa and never get up again? Digestion can be slow, uncomfortable and even disrupt the rest of your day - but with a few simple gestures, you can change all that.
We've listed 5 easy actions you can take immediately after meals to help your body digest better. Number 3 is surprising!
1. Stand or walk lightly for 10 minutes
No lying down or throwing yourself on the sofa after eating! The ideal is to stand up or take a light walk. This stimulates the gastrointestinal tract, improves circulation and speeds up gastric emptying, reducing that uncomfortable bloating.
Tip: a quick walk around the block or indoors will help!
2. Drink some warm water (not ice water!)
Many people think that drinking cold water after eating "refreshes" them, but what it actually does is constrict the vessels in the stomach and make digestion more difficult. On the other hand, warm water or warm tea (such as mint or chamomile) help dissolve fats and soothe the digestive process.
3. Avoid tight clothing in the abdominal area
Yes, even your pants can hinder your digestion! Very tight clothing compresses the stomach area and hinders intestinal transit, increasing the chance of reflux and gas.
Opt for comfortable clothes after lunch, especially if you work sitting down.
4. Avoid cell phones and screens after eating
It may sound strange, but focusing on screens immediately after eating interferes with the communication between brain and body. You become distracted, chew poorly and miss out on satiety signals. What's more, the excess of stimuli can keep the body on its toes, making digestion more difficult.
Instead, take 10 minutes for a real break - listen to music, meditate or even look at the sky.
5. Try gentle stretches
A few simple stretches or yoga poses - such as the "child's pose" or a slight twist while seated - help the digestive system to function better. They stimulate bowel movements and can prevent gas and constipation.
Conclusion: the secret is in the aftermath!
We pay so much attention to what we eat... but what you do after a meal is also decisive for your digestion, well-being and even your mood.
Incorporate these small habits into your routine - your stomach (and your mood) will thank you!
Mirella Mendonça
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