The Genesis of a Trend

The term “fart walk” gained popularity thanks to Mairlyn Smith, a 70-year-old Canadian author and gut health advocate. Smith and her husband started walking after dinner more than a decade ago to relieve gas and support digestion. In an Instagram post that went viral, Smith explained how their fiber-rich diet often led to bloating, prompting them to start nightly walks to ease the discomfort.

We walked, cue the farts, and the legendary fart walk was born.

Her candid approach to post-meal movement resonated with many, transforming a personal routine into a widely discussed wellness habit.

The Science Behind the Stroll: Digestive and Metabolic Benefits

Medical professionals confirm the digestive advantages of post-meal walks. Light movement after eating aids the intestines in processing gas and promotes regular bowel activity.

Walking stimulates intestinal motility,reducing the risk of constipation and bloating.
Dr. tim Tiutan, internal medicine specialist at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

Beyond digestion, the practice has meaningful metabolic effects. Walking after a meal can prevent sharp increases in blood sugar and improve insulin sensitivity for up to 24 hours. This is particularly beneficial for aging adults or those at risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

If you wait too long, you’ll miss the spike as it starts going up within minutes after you eat.
Dr. Christopher Damman, gastroenterologist at the University of Washington Medical Center, highlighting the importance of timing a post-meal walk within an hour of eating

More Than Just digestion: weight management and Heart health

While a fart walk isn’t an intense workout, consistent post-meal movement contributes to calorie burning and metabolic activity, aiding in maintaining a healthy weight.A Japanese study indicated that walking shortly after meals resulted in greater weight loss than walking an hour later.

There are also cardiovascular benefits. Walking raises the heart rate, improves blood flow, and supports heart function. The American Cancer Society recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week, such as brisk walking, aligning with this trend.

Fart walks also support better sleep. By enhancing digestion and regulating blood sugar, post-meal walks can definitely help the body wind down more easily at night. Movement also releases endorphins, improving mood and reducing stress and anxiety.

Social media users have shared personal success stories, including one user who wrote that walking helps manage digestion after intestinal surgery. Another said they are gradually encouraging their children to adopt the habit after realizing how little movement most people get post-meals.

Doctor’s Orders: Embrace the Fart Walk

medical consensus continues to build around the benefits of this simple practice.

I totally support fart walks.
Dr. Tiutan, summarizing the advantages: reduced bloating, regulated blood sugar, improved bowel movement, heightened insulin sensitivity, and boosted metabolism

Smith responded to his endorsement, thanking him for promoting a habit she believes can help people age wonderfully. She continues to encourage her followers to embrace the practice,reminding them that the fart walk is about embracing a healthy lifestyle one step at a time.

Despite its name, the fart walk is far from a joke. It’s a doctor-supported, easy-to-implement habit that might be a valuable key to long-term wellness.