Despite warnings about swimming on a full stomach, eating before jumping into the pool is usually not a problem. But it could be something else.
How many times have your parents advised you not to jump into the pool or the sea right after eating? Apparently they were very cautious in their advice.
Doctors say that in most cases it is not necessary to wait at least 30 minutes after eating to swim.
This old warning comes from the fear that people might suffocate or struggle with blood being directed entirely to their stomachs instead of their muscles.
In fact, muscles still circulate well after eating, explains Dr Matthew Badgett of the Cleveland Clinic in the United States. A former high school swimmer, Badgett would eat a few bananas and drink water or a sports drink before competing.
He worries that the old warning may actually cause complications.
Water loss is critical
It is important to quench your thirst before swimming, especially on sunny days. People often don’t realize that they can become dehydrated, which can lead to muscle cramps.
“We sweat when we’re in the water, we just don’t like losing water,” he said.
So jumping into the pool or the sea after a meal is not a problem for recreational swimming.
However, people who plan to swim a few laps or exercise may want to digest their meals as they would before a run to prevent cramps.
Plus, swimming after a few beers is risky.
People tend to be more aggressive, less coordinated and make poor swimming choices after consuming alcohol. All of these factors can cause problems when battling strong currents or ocean tides at the beach this summer.
“You’re just not going to be sharp,” Badgett said.