Take a “fart walk” after your Thanksgiving meal

Walking after meals, a trend that’s gone viral on social media as the “fart walk,” might be more than just a quirky health hack.

Experts say this simple practice could aid digestion and help regulate blood sugar levels.

The idea took off as followers began posting their own #fartwalk videos, but it’s not as novel as it seems. Cultures worldwide have long embraced after-dinner strolls, such as the Chinese proverb, “If you take 100 steps after each meal, you’ll live to 99.”

After-dinner walks can give your digestion a helpful boost. Dr. Christopher Damman, a gastroenterologist at the Digestive Health Center at UW Medical Center – Montlake, explains that moving your body stimulates your bowels, speeding up digestion.

One review of seven studies found that light walking after eating significantly reduced blood sugar and insulin levels compared to sitting. Lowering these spikes is essential for avoiding insulin resistance, which can lead to prediabetes or diabetes.

I can barely get off of the couch after my meal, let alone go for a walk. Maybe someone can roll me on the walk.

Read more about the benefits of walking after a meal here