Why ‘Fart Walks’ Are Blowing Up The Internet? Experts Weigh In On The Surprising Health Benefits

Feeling too shy to let loose? Well, this trend might just potentially reduce the risk of health issues. Of course, no one’s suggesting you indulge in this viral wellness habit in the middle of a packed event, but when you’re out on a walk, it’s time to embrace it.

A bizarre yet fascinating trend called the “fart walk” is making waves across the internet, receiving firm backup from medical professionals claiming it could help lower the risk of cancer and other diseases.

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According to a report by the New York Post, the term isn’t exactly new, it was first coined by Canadian cook book author Mairlyn Smith in early 2024.

What is “Fart Walks”?

Smith, who enjoys going on a walk with her husband 60 minutes after dinner with a primary goal to aid digestion and ward off serious diseases reveals on TikTok, “Going for a fart walk after dinner is something that’s going to help you age wonderfully.”

She further added, "We eat a lot of fiber, so we have gas — everybody does — so you fart when you walk. But the main reason we do the fart walks is by walking for as little as two minutes…we are helping reduce our chances of developing Type 2 diabetes.”

Experts' take on “Fart Walks”

Dr. Tim Tiutan, an internal medicine doctor at NYC’s Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, strongly supports Smith's fitness routine. In an Instagram post shared on March 9, he’s seen enjoying a "fart walk," sharing his positive view on the practice.

In the video, he says, “I totally support fart walks.” He goes on to explain the benefits, “Walking after meals promotes intestinal motility, which helps move gas and prevents constipation. Another benefit of exercise is that it not only helps prevent large spikes in blood sugar but can also make us more sensitive to insulin for up to 24 hours. Plus, it lowers our cancer risk.”

While more thorough research is needed on 'Fart Walks' specifically, a study presented by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) on 'functional abdominal bloating' highlights significant improvements in GI tract symptoms in individuals who took 10-15 minute walk following a meal.