7 Things To Avoid Doing After Eating
Although many of us have the habit of going out for a walk or taking a nap after eating, the truth is that they are activities that we should postpone so that they do not interfere with The digestion.
Most people have a few free minutes after eating and, taking advantage of them, they practice some habits to distract themselves or relax. These customs have spread over the years in the population and, although some are carried out unconsciously, they are not always convenient to maintain well-being.
Although at first they seem harmless actions, over time they can influence the appearance of uncomfortable symptoms or health problems. Taking into account that many are unaware of them, below we want to reveal them in detail. Discover them!
1. Sleep
Taking a nap or going to sleep after eating can cause annoying digestive symptoms. Although for many it is a relaxing and necessary habit, it is essential to bear in mind that its practice directly affects the digestion process.
Since the body is lying down, the gastric juices do not completely cover the food in the stomach and therefore do not use the nutrients optimally. In addition, they can cause discomfort in the esophagus, since its acidic nature causes reflux and a burning sensation.
2. Smoking
It is no secret to anyone that the bad habit of smoking has serious consequences on lung and cardiovascular health.
What some do not know is that the risks are even greater when practiced after eating and especially a main meal. This is because nicotine binds to excess oxygen that is necessary in the digestive process and, in turn, this facilitates the absorption of carcinogens.
3. Eat fruits
Some may think that fruits are a healthy alternative to complement the main dishes of the day. They are sweet, versatile and seem like a good option to avoid eating traditional desserts.
However, what few know is that it is more convenient to consume them on an empty stomach, either on an empty stomach or between meals. This food requires different enzymes to digest well and its natural sugars need more time to be fully absorbed.
When eaten just before or after a large meal, their remains remain in the stomach longer and can cause indigestion, gas and other discomfort.
4. Take a shower
Although taking a shower can be relaxing and good for circulatory health, it is not advisable to do so after eating as it can cause a weakening of the digestive system. This increases blood flow to the hands and lower body, thus decreasing the amount that must go to the stomach.
As a consequence, their functions become deficient, which in turn can cause pain, inflammation and heaviness.
5. Drink cold water
Drinking cold water during and after meals can cause poor digestion of food. It appears to cause food to clump together and, in turn, hinder the process of nutrient absorption and waste separation.
6. Drink tea
Despite the fact that tea is a healthy drink, it is not recommended to take it with the main dishes of the day. This food interferes with the absorption of iron, since it contains a substance called tannic acid that binds with protein and this mineral.
As a result, there is up to an 87% decrease in iron absorption, which can lead to chronic episodes of anemia. This nutrient is essential for the production of red blood cells in the blood and its deficiency leads to symptoms such as:
- Pale skin.
- Chest pain.
- Brittle nails
- Lack of appetite.
- Cold hands and feet.
- Extreme tiredness and weakness.