Most of us think we need a long walk, a hard workout or a trip to the gym to improve our health.

Yet research suggests one of the simplest things we can do is take a short walk after eating.

Studies have found that light activity shortly after a meal can reduce post-meal blood sugar spikes, with timing often more important than intensity. In fact, exercise performed after eating appears to have a greater impact on post-meal glucose levels than exercise undertaken before a meal.

The reason is surprisingly simple. As your leg muscles contract, they use glucose for fuel, helping to remove some of that sugar from the bloodstream while it is still circulating. Research has shown that even short periods of walking can be beneficial.

It’s a useful reminder that health isn’t always about doing more.

Sometimes it’s about doing something small at the right time.

So rather than sinking straight into the sofa after dinner, perhaps take a gentle ten-minute stroll around the block.

Your body may thank you.

Trail Reflection: Could you build a short post-meal walk into your daily routine?