Post-Meal Walks May Boost Digestion, Improve Health, and Lower Disease Risk

A growing number of health experts and wellness advocates are touting the benefits of a light walk after dinner—a practice humorously dubbed the “fart walk,” New York Post reports.

Though the name may raise eyebrows, the science behind this simple routine points to serious health perks, ranging from improved digestion to potential cancer prevention.

The term “fart walk” was coined by Canadian cookbook author Mairlyn Smith, who shared the practice on social media, explaining that she and her husband go for 60-minute walks each evening after meals. While she notes the inevitability of some post-meal flatulence, she emphasizes that the primary goal is to support digestion and prevent chronic illness.

“We eat a lot of fiber, so we have gas — everybody does — so you fart when you walk,” Smith said. “But the main reason we do the fart walks is that walking for as little as two minutes can help reduce our chances of developing Type 2 diabetes.”

Medical experts agree. Dr. Tim Tiutan, an internal medicine physician at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, publicly supported the practice, explaining that walking after meals promotes intestinal motility, helps reduce constipation, moderates blood sugar spikes, and even lowers cancer risk.

While specific studies on “fart walks” are limited, research overwhelmingly supports the benefits of moderate physical activity. The National Cancer Institute recommends 150 to 300 minutes of moderate exercise per week to reduce the risk of chronic illnesses, including several types of cancer.

Even shorter bouts of activity can be effective. A 2021 study found that just 10 minutes of daily movement can help relieve bloating, while another study determined that walking after a meal can be more effective for digestion than more intense forms of exercise like running.

For those focused on technique, researchers in Iran found that the most effective walking posture for reducing gas involves walking with hands clasped behind the back and the head slightly tilted forward. This position is believed to reduce swallowed air and encourage smoother movement of gas through the digestive system.

Gas is a natural byproduct of digestion, particularly when consuming high-fiber foods such as vegetables, beans, and whole grains. These foods fuel the gut microbiome, which releases gases as part of the digestive process. Walking after meals helps keep that process in motion, reducing discomfort and enhancing overall gut health.