Just 2 Minutes of Walking After a Meal Is Surprisingly Good for You - The New York Times

A new paper suggests that it takes far less exercise than was previously thought to lower blood sugar after eating.

Scientists have also found that going for a 15-minute walk after a meal can reduce blood sugar levels, which can help ward off complications such as Type 2 diabetes.

They found that light walking after a meal, in increments of as little as two to five minutes, had a significant impact in moderating blood sugar levels.

All seven studies showed that just a few minutes of light-intensity walking after a meal were enough to significantly improve blood sugar levels compared to, say, sitting at a desk or plopping down on the couch.

When participants went for a short walk, their blood sugar levels rose and fell more gradually.

It’s also thought that sharp spikes and crashes in blood sugar levels can contribute to developing Type 2 diabetes.

Standing also helped lower blood sugar levels, although not to the degree that light walking did.

Although light walking at any time is good for your health, a short walk within 60 to 90 minutes of eating a meal can be especially useful in minimizing blood sugar spikes, as that is when blood sugar levels tend to peak.

This short amount of activity will also enhance other dietary changes that people may be making to help control their blood sugar levels.