After a meal, many prefer to lie down and watch a movie or just relax, not realizing that such a habit can negatively affect their overall health.
So, here are 5 actions that should not be taken immediately after eating:
1. Smoking
Many are aware of the harm smoking does to health, yet continue to adhere to this harmful habit, including right after meals.
It is important to understand that cigarettes contain nicotine, which reduces the level of oxygen in the body necessary for digestive processes, leading to higher absorption of carcinogens.
Studies show that smoking one cigarette right after a meal is as harmful as smoking ten cigarettes at once. Additionally, it may increase the risk of developing lung and bowel cancer.
2. Eating fruits
The best time to eat fruits is before meals, on an empty stomach, as different enzymes are required for their digestion.
Moreover, the sugars contained in fruits take longer to be fully absorbed. Eating fruits on an empty stomach allows you to gain more nutrients, fiber, and sugars.
Consuming fruits after meals can cause heartburn, stomach disorders, and belching.
3. Sleeping immediately after eating
Lying down right after a meal puts you at risk of discomfort, bloating, and sleep problems, as it forces the stomach to work actively throughout the night.
A study conducted by the medical school of the University of Ioannina in Greece showed that people who do not lie down after eating have a significantly lower risk of stroke.
It is recommended not to eat 2-3 hours before sleep.
4. Showering after a meal
Taking a shower immediately after eating increases blood flow to the extremities, which reduces blood flow to the stomach. This can weaken digestion and lead to stomach pains.
5. Drinking tea after meals
You should never drink tea immediately after eating, as it interferes with iron absorption. Tea contains tannic acids that bind with iron and proteins in food.
It has been scientifically proven that this can lead to a reduction in iron absorption by 87%. Iron deficiency can cause anemia, which manifests as paleness, poor appetite, chest pains, cold extremities, dizziness, weakness, and constant fatigue.
Thus, it can be concluded that there are certain actions to avoid immediately after a meal.
Source: fithacker
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