Disclaimer: The information provided in this article does not constitute medical advice. It is recommended for readers to consult their general practitioners before implementing any of these suggestions.

If you’ve spent any time on social media lately, you might have come across a rather cheeky new trend: the 'fart walk'. While the name might make you giggle, there’s actually some solid science behind this post-meal practice—and it’s not just about letting off a bit of steam after dinner.


So, what exactly is a 'fart walk'? The term was popularised by cookbook author and influencer Marilyn Smith, who shared her experience on Instagram. The idea is simple: after you finish your meal, you take a short walk—just five to ten minutes—to help your body digest, release any trapped gas, and, yes, maybe even pass a little wind along the way. The hashtag #fartwalk has since taken off, with people all over the world sharing their own post-dinner strolls.


But is there more to this than just a bit of fun? According to medical experts, the answer is a resounding yes.

Dr Tim Tiutan, an internal medicine physician at New York City’s Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, says that a short walk after eating can do wonders for your health. In a recent Instagram video, Dr Tiutan explained that a five to ten minute walk after a meal can help prevent blood sugar spikes, which in turn lowers your risk of developing type two Diabetes. For those of us watching our health as we age, that’s a pretty compelling reason to lace up the sneakers after dinner!


But the benefits don’t stop there. Walking after a meal can also:

• Aid digestion by helping food move through your digestive tract
• Reduce bloating and discomfort
• Improve circulation
• Support heart health
• Help with weight management

While 'fart walking' might sound like a modern, tongue-in-cheek trend, the idea of a post-meal stroll is anything but new. Italians have been enjoying the 'la passeggiata'—a leisurely evening walk—since the Renaissance. In India, the 'shatapawali' is a similar tradition, where people take a gentle walk after dinner. And there’s even an old Chinese proverb that says, 'If you take 100 steps after each meal, you’ll live to 99.'


It seems our ancestors knew a thing or two about healthy habits, even if they didn’t have a catchy hashtag for it!

Believe it or not, fart walking isn’t the only so-called 'naughty' habit that could have health benefits. Here are a few more that might surprise you:

• Swearing: Dropping the occasional swear word (in the right setting, of course!) can actually help you regulate your emotions, push through a tough workout, and even increase your pain tolerance. Some studies suggest that swearing can help people bond and feel more comfortable in social situations, too.
• Nose Picking: While it’s not exactly dinner table conversation, some research suggests that consuming mucus can expose your immune system to small amounts of pathogens, potentially giving it a little boost. Plus, the mucins in saliva and mucus can help protect your teeth from harmful bacteria.
• Cleaning with Spit: Ever seen a parent clean a child’s face with a bit of spit on a tissue? Turns out, there’s some science behind it! Human saliva contains amylase, an enzyme that breaks down starches and can help clean surfaces in a pinch.

Of course, just because something has a potential health benefit doesn’t mean you should go wild with it—especially in public! While a post-dinner walk is a great idea, you might want to keep the nose-picking and swearing to more private moments.


And as always, if you have any health concerns or medical conditions, it’s best to check with your doctor before making any big changes to your routine.

Ready to give it a go? Here are a few tips to get started:

• Keep it short and sweet: Just five to ten minutes is enough to get the benefits.
• Go at your own pace: A gentle stroll is all you need—no need to power-walk or break a sweat.
• Make it a habit: Try to walk after your main meal each day. It’s a great way to wind down and enjoy some fresh air.
• Bring a friend (or your dog!): Walking is always more fun with company.

Have you tried a post-meal walk, or do you have any quirky health habits that work for you? We’d love to hear your stories and tips! Share your experiences in the comments below—let’s keep the conversation (and the laughter) going.
And remember, sometimes the simplest (and silliest) habits can make a big difference to our health and happiness. So, don’t be afraid to embrace the fart walk—your body (and maybe your sense of humour) will thank you!