Should you wait to swim after eating?

It’s so common to tell kids to wait an hour after eating to swim that many of us never question it. But what are the actual consequences of jumping straight back in the pool after you’ve had your lunch? Norman and Tegan tackle whether this advice is grounded in evidence, and discuss what you should actually avoid. References: Scouting for boys - 1908 The International Lifesaving Federation medical position statement 2014 Effect of food consumption on 200-yard freestyle swim performance The National Drowning Report 2025 Monday’s medical myth: wait 30 minutes after eating before you swim – the Conversation If you enjoyed this episode, check these out! Does magnesium work against muscle cramps? Why do you feel so tired after a big meal? Is being an Olympian bad for your health?

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Should you wait to swim after eating? is an episode from Coronacast by Australian Broadcasting Corporation.

This episode is 0:14:00 long.

This episode was published on Jan 27, 2026.

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