Posted on December 8th, 2017

Christmas is a time of celebration with family and friends that brings with it lots of delicious foods and often alcohol. It is often a time for overindulgent of foods in general, healthy and unhealthy, which can result in gastrointestinal disturbances, changes in mood, and the sluggish and fatigue feeling that many experience come mid/late afternoon. Often you tell yourself that in the New Year I will eat better, I have definitely been guilty of this New Year’s resolution in the past.

While I do believe it is important to enjoy the foods you like in moderation all year round, Christmas is often associated with increased consumption. To help beat the bloat and to aid in better digestion of the food you do consume this Christmas, “good and bad”, try these tips:

• Aim to drink 2L of water daily – to aid in the removal of toxins, to facilitate digestion and to keep you hydrated especially as it is getting hotter!
• Take 1 tbsp of apple cider vinegar in water before each main meal or sip lemon juice in water throughout the day.
• Take a digestion enzyme before each main meal – can be purchased at Chemists or Health Food Stores to help you break down proteins, carbs and fats.
• Try to eat a small bowl of salad or vegetables first before digging into the other food available – this may stop you from overeating or even make you more inclined to pick the healthier option.
• After you eat get up and move, walk around for 15 minutes to facilitate digestion. Even doing a few basic stretches can help.
• Try making your own alcoholic drinks if you can to reduce sugar content. Can add fresh fruit, coconut cream, coconut water or other healthier mixes yourself. Be creative!
• When baking try and swap out some of the staple ingredients (white flour, butter, white sugar and cow’s milk) for healthier alternatives to reduce the chances of gastrointestinal discomfort.
• Before sleep each night take a probiotic supplement to support good gut bacteria.
• Find time to RELAX and appreciate the food and festivities going on around you. Stress over this period is often heightened and can create all sorts of problems to your health and especially your digestion system.