“It permits individuals to soundly swallow dietary supplements or medicines with out gagging,” says Bindiya Gandhi, MD. “The premise is to place the capsule in the midst of your tongue, take a swig of water, and lean your head ahead so you possibly can simply swallow.”
Why the lean-forward technique works
The lean-forward technique is a greater and safer option to swallow tablets as a result of it places you able that will not shut off your throat, in keeping with Dr. Ghandi. “Tilting your head ahead permits the capsules to maneuver again to your throat, which lets you swallow simpler,” Dr. Gandhi says. “Once you tilt your head backward, it opens up your airway, and basically may block it off, which may very well be problematic.
Though the lean-forward technique can improve skill to swallow tablets with out downside by 96.9 %, in keeping with a 2014 research by Annals of Household Drugs, you must nonetheless be cautions when taking any medication or dietary supplements orally as a result of there’s a choking hazard. “Don’t take too many tablets at a time—only one to 2,” warns Dr. Gandhi, including to additionally drink loads of water with the intention to assist push the drugs down.
In the event you’re nonetheless struggling after making an attempt to lean-forward technique, Dr. Gandhi advises chatting with your healthcare skilled. “Speak to your physician in case there are contradictions so that you can swallow capsules or tablets after surgical procedure or procedures or you have got any medical issues which may be a problem.”