Unexpected harms of lying down right after eating

After eating, we often feel tired and lethargic. This is a completely normal reaction of the body after eating, making us want to lie down immediately. This action is not good for the digestive system.

Lying down right after eating doesn't ruin our digestive system immediately, but this habit will be harmful in the long run. The digestive process depends on many movements, from body movements to stomach contractions, according to the health website Medical News Today (UK).

Lying down right after eating can cause many digestive problems, such as reflux or bloating.

When we keep our body in an upright position, our digestive system digests easily. Food passes smoothly through the intestines due to the effect of gravity. However, when we lie down, the digestive activity in the intestines is affected.

One of the most common problems caused by lying down right after eating is reflux. Acid from the stomach flows back up into the esophagus, causing a burning, uncomfortable feeling in the throat. If this happens frequently, the person will be diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux. This is a chronic health problem that increases the risk of esophageal ulcers and many other digestive diseases.

In addition, another effect of the habit of lying down immediately after eating is slowing down the digestion process and causing bloating. However, this does not mean that we need to exercise a lot immediately after a meal.

A full meal causes blood to flow to the intestines to aid digestion. If you exercise in this state, your muscles will not receive enough blood, which can easily lead to cramps. Therefore, the best way is to exercise gently by walking. Walking after eating not only helps aid digestion but also helps regulate blood sugar.

To avoid negative health effects, experts recommend that people should wait at least 1 to 2 hours after a meal before lying down. This period of time gives the stomach enough time to digest food, reducing the risk of reflux and bloating.

If for some reason you have to lie down right after a meal, prop your back up with pillows so that your back is at a 30 to 45 degree angle. This position helps keep stomach acid from flowing back up into the esophagus, while also reducing pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter, according to Medical News Today .

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/tac-hai-khong-ngo-cua-nam-ngay-sau-khi-an-185250305211842941.htm