A short walk after a meal can reduce blood sugar and lower the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Setting off 60 to 90 minutes after eating is optimum as this is when blood sugar levels typically peak and it allows the muscles to soak up fuel from the food, experts say.
Aim for a 15 minute stroll but even mini walks of two to five minutes can offer some benefit. Researchers found that light walking after a meal has a significant impact in moderating blood sugar levels and even a few minutes of light intensity walking after a meal was enough to improve blood sugar levels by requiring more active engagement of the muscles and uses sugar when there is a lot of it circulating in the bloodstream.
Aidan Buffey, lead author of the review which was published in the journal of Sports Medicine says “Moving even a little bit after eating is worth while and can lead to measurable changes”.