Most memorable summer pool parties in Mesa involve friends getting together, awesome outdoor food, and, of course, swimming. But after eating food you have always been told to wait at least 30 minutes before getting in the water. Presidential Pools & Spas takes a closer look at eating after swimming.

AN AGE-OLD MYTH

Parents have been telling their kids to wait to swim after they eat for decades. Despite the ideas relative popularity, overwhelming evidence suggests that swimming after you consume food is not in fact dangerous. If anything, the most prominent negative aspect of swimming directly after having a large meal is potential stomach pain.

The myth comes from how the body digests food. The digestive system uses blood from muscles across the body to aid in food consumption. With reduced blood flow to the muscles, parents have feared that there is potentially less oxygen and, in turn, muscle cramps. In reality, we have enough blood to keep all parts of the body working after a meal.

ALWAYS BE CAUTIOUS

The best practice for handling swimming after eating is common sense. Swimming right after a huge meal can cause stomach pains. While stomach pains usually won’t lead to danger in the water, they can be uncomfortable. Additionally, eating large amounts of food will cause your body to need more water. Swimming while dehydrated is dangerous, so always drink a lot of fluids during a meal.

Simply put: wait until everyone is comfortable before entering the water after a meal.