Christmas is a time of indulgence, with many of us finding we overeat during the holiday season.
And eating a higher quantity of often richer foods can result in painful bloating that can be hard to shift.
Mince pies, turkey, and brussels sprouts are all things that make it feel like Christmas, but may also wreak havoc on your digestive system, leaving you feeling uncomfortable.
Read more: The Co Antrim town that pulled together to spread Christmas cheer
We've put together a list of top tips for handling Christmas bloating, as well as some ways to avoid it in the first place.
Stay active
After feasting on a huge Christmas dinner, there's nothing we'd rather do than lie on the sofa and watch a few festive films.
But to tackle becoming bloated, going for a quick walk after eating may help ease symptoms by stimulating the digestive system.
Make sure to stay hydrated
It's not just food we overindulge on at this time of year, with many of us maybe drinking alcohol a bit more than usual over Christmas.
To counteract this, it's important to drink plenty of water if you want to enjoy alcohol, which disrupts the balance of bacteria within the gut.
As well as this, drinking an excessive amount makes it more difficult for your body to break down and digest nutrients. To enjoy a few drinks without the dreaded bloating, have a glass of water in between each drink.
Slow things down
Taking time to focus on our eating can work wonders when it comes to reducing festive bloating.
When we're in a rush, our nervous system enters the fight-flight-or-freeze mode, also known as ‘sympathetic dominant’. But if we take time to sit down and eat in a more relaxed way, we engage the ‘parasympathetic’ mode, also known as rest-and-digest.
Eating quickly can also lead to swallowing more air, which can lead to painful bloating.
Simply put, Christmas bloating can be reduced by taking your time while eating.
Try some bitter food and drink
Research shows that certain bitter foods can be useful when it comes to managing symptoms of indigestion and bloating.
Peppermint tea can help to ease bloating, as does a fennel or lemon balm tea. Keep a pack of your choice on hand over the festive season and treat yourself to a cup after a meal.
Cut back on smoking - particularly around mealtimes
Smoking is one of the biggest irritants to your stomach, so if you aren’t able to quit just yet at least reduce your intake if possible.
Loosen your belt before eating
There really is a benefit to getting out that elasticated waistband. Tight-fitting clothes can put unnecessary pressure on your stomach so be sure to throw on your best loose fitting clothes ahead of a big meal.
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