Support Gut Health this Christmas and Avoid Jingle Bowels!
posted 20th December 2023
Christmas is an exciting time for many, but a combination of rich food, alcohol and stress can result in uncomfortable digestive symptoms, which can ruin the Christmas cheer! Heartburn, bloating, wind, constipation and diarrhoea are just a few of the signs that digestion is feeling the Christmas strain and can result in unwanted "jingle bowels"!
Following these simple tips can support your digestive system and help you get through the holidays without jingling all the way:
1. Practice Mindful Eating
Try not to eat in a rush but take time to chew your food slowly and really appreciate the delicious flavours and textures. Thinking about what we are eating and chewing slowly allows time for our digestive juices to work on the food and digest it properly.
2. Feed your Microbes
Give your gut microbiome a Christmas feast by loading up on carrots, parsnips, cabbage and brussels which are rich in fibre and phytonutrients. Consider snacks of apples, satsumas, nuts and seeds instead of cakes, chocolates and biscuits to give gut bugs a treat too!
3. Move your Body
Remember that physical activity helps gut movements, so going for walks and getting fresh air after meals is an excellent way of avoiding bloating and constipation.
4. Enjoy Alcohol in Moderation
Too much alcohol can disrupt the diversity of our gut microbiome and encourage the overgrowth of gut bugs associated with higher levels of inflammation. Moderate alcohol consumption and make sure you drink plenty of water as well.
5. Take Time to Relax
Disruptions to our routine at Christmas can leave us feeling anxious and overwhelmed. This can lead to gut-related symptoms, so make sure you take time to relax, unwind and spend precious time with family and friends.
Nutritional Therapy can be a great way to help resolve unwanted digestive symptoms and rebalance your gut microbiome. If you would like more information or are interested in booking a consultation contact Medicinal Eating.
