Most people tend to focus on eating the right foods, which is important, but what you do after eating is just as crucial. Your post-meal routine can affect your digestion, weight, and overall health.

Here are the seven common mistakes you might be making after meals and how to fix them.

1. Sitting/lying down immediately after eating

One of the worst things you can do after eating is to sit or lie down. When you are in a horizontal position, your stomach content can come up quickly, causing acid reflux symptoms or heartburn.

Additionally, sitting down after eating can lead to indigestion and bloating. Instead, go for a short walk or do some light exercise to help with digestion and keep the food moving through the digestive tract.

2. Drinking too much water with meals

While it’s important to drink plenty of water throughout the day, drinking too much of it after meals can impair digestion.

When you consume too much water with your food, it can dilute your stomach acid, making it harder to digest the food properly. Aim to drink water half an hour before or after meals and focus on sipping small amounts of water during meals instead.

3. Consuming alcohol after a meal

Drinking alcohol after eating can interfere with your body’s natural digestive process. Alcohol can slow down the digestion process and prevent the nutrients from being absorbed by the body.

In addition, alcohol can stimulate the production of stomach acid, leading to acid reflux or heartburn. If you must have alcohol after a meal, keep it to a minimum and aim to drink plenty of water as well.

4. Eating dessert immediately after a meal

Eating dessert after a meal can lead to overeating and prompt the release of insulin, which can cause a drop in blood sugar levels. This can leave you feeling lethargic and sluggish.

Instead, wait at least 30 minutes after your meal to indulge in a small serving of dessert.

5. Not washing your hands before and after meals

It’s important to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water before eating. This can help remove any bacteria or germs that may be on your hands. Additionally, you should wash your hands after meals to reduce the spread of germs.

Not washing your hands properly can lead to gastrointestinal issues, such as vomiting or diarrhea.

6. Using your phone or watching TV

Many people use their phones or watch TV while eating, but this can cause you to overeat. When you are not paying attention to what you are eating, it can be easy to consume more calories than you need.

Additionally, using electronic devices during meals can be distracting, leading to slower digestion and a build-up of gas in the intestines. Instead, try to eat in a quiet environment and focus on your food.

7. Going to bed right after eating

Going to bed immediately after a meal can lead to heartburn, bloating, and indigestion. When you lie down, gravity can cause the stomach contents to flow back into the esophagus, leading to acid reflux.

Try to wait at least two to three hours after eating before going to bed to give your stomach enough time to empty.