The festive season is full of temptations and the likelihood is that most of us will be over-indulging at some point during the next week or two. Christmas puts a strain on our digestive system, and that, combined with rising stress levels at this time of the year, is a recipe for tummy troubles. Here are some handy tips to keep you feeling good this festive season…
Kickstart your day with lemon water
A glass of warm lemon water first thing in the morning is a great way to start the day. This simple drink is known to aid the digestive system and help flush out toxins. There are also a whole host of benefits associated with lemon water including boosting the immune system, balancing pH levels, helping to clear the skin, promoting healing and hydrating the lymph system.
Switch to peppermint tea
When your tummy isn’t feeling its best, instead of reaching for your usual teabag, why not try a refreshing peppermint tea. It tastes great and contains relaxant properties that can improve the passage of food through the digestive tract.
Eat small amounts of food regularly
While it can be tricky to fit in lots of little meals throughout the day, if you suffer with digestive problems eating small portions at regular intervals is a fantastic way to help out your system. It will help to keep your metabolism running strong. Overloading your system, on the other hand, can result in indigestion.
Make sure you’re getting enough fibre
The main role of fibre in our diet is to keep the digestive system healthy so it’s important that we get our recommended daily allowance of 20g per day. Fibre is also known to benefit diabetes, blood cholesterol levels and weight control. Good sources of fibre include wholegrain foods, fruits and vegetables.
Keep yourself hydrated
A high fibre diet must be paired with drinking enough water every day. This should be at least eight glasses per day. Water helps to break down food so that our bodies can absorb nutrients and helps flush out toxins. Carry a bottle of water with you throughout the day and choose fruits and vegetables with high water content like oranges, cucumbers and melon.
Do some gentle exercise
Regular exercise helps to speed up digestion by increasing blood flow to your organs and stimulating muscles in the intestines. Cardio exercises like walking, swimming and jogging which get the entire body moving are most beneficial when it comes to keeping your tummy feeling its best.
Listen to your body
If you’re feeling stuffed, stop eating! Over-eating is a sure fire way to upset your tummy. Keep track of how you feel after eating certain foods; if you’re feeling uncomfortable after eating a certain good, avoid it or eat less of it in future.
If you’re worried about indigestion this festive season, get your hands on some Maalox Plus Triple action formula. This established remedy provides fast relief from bloating, trapped-wind, indigestion and heartburn. Find out more at www.maaloxplus.ie
