How long after dinner can I exercise?

Apr 21, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I’ve been exercising after dinner lately, but my husband says exercising immediately after dinner is unhealthy. So, how long should I wait after dinner before exercising?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Pan Yongyuan
In general, it is advisable to wait approximately two hours after dinner before engaging in physical exercise. This is primarily because food typically takes about five hours to empty from the stomach. Exercising immediately after a meal may reduce blood flow to the intestines, leading to indigestion. Additionally, for patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), immediate physical activity after eating can exacerbate symptoms.