Top tips for looking after your digestive health this Christmas

It’s the same every year – once the festive season arrives, we abandon all our good habits and dive headlong into a month of OTT indulgence. From mince pies and marzipan to stuffing and stollen, we’re faced with an abundance of food that’s just a bit too hard to resist – meaning that second helpings become an all too common occurrence.

Unfortunately, our bodies aren’t prepared for this sudden binge. Unable to cope with so many rich foods, our digestive systems often start to play up – leaving us feeling uncomfortable at the least opportune moment.

Worried about experiencing digestive problems this Christmas? No one’s saying you have to stick to salad – but nutritionist Amanda Hamilton and the team at Imodium do have some have some helpful advice. Remember these tips and you won’t be left regretting any dietary decisions this festive season...
Canapé catastrophes

Christmas is supposed to be a season of bright colours – so why is most party food boring old beige? Canapés, sausage rolls, sandwiches, cake... it’s all made of beige coloured wheat which is high in gluten and low in nutrients. For some people, repeatedly eating wheat-based products can lead to bloating and an irritated bowel. Try to add some colour to the menu with crudités and dips, fresh fruit and juices to aid your body’s effective digestion.
Under pressure

Love them or hate them, having your in-laws over and your other half’s mother watching your every move in the kitchen would make anyone anxious! Apprehension or stress can imbalance your digestive system, leaving you feeling below par. Try to take measures to ease your stress, incorporating relaxation therapies such as yoga, meditation or music into your festive routine – or just step outside with a calming cup of peppermint tea for a moment to get away from it all.

Source: http://www.wahanda.com/

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Drinking Tips to Reduce Harm

• Don't drink alcohol to quench your thirst.
• Use non-alcoholic drinks.
• Use spacers (alcohol free drinks) between alcoholic drinks to prevent excessive alcohol consumption.
• Drink low alcohol beverages.
• Count your drinks, keeping within the recommended guidelines
• Don't refill your glass until it is empty.
• Don't gulp drinks. Take smaller sips.
• Eat before drinking. Your drink will take longer to be absorbed.
• Don't drink if you are pregnant. It may damage the health of your unborn child.
• Don't drink if you are operating machinery, you put your fellow workers as well as yourself at risk.
• If you are a regular drinker, have at least two alcohol-free days each week.
• Don't drink to cope with stress.
• Exercise, relaxation, meditation or talking to friends are safer ways of coping.

 Source: http://www.thelivercentre.com.au

Read more:

Safe drinking level of alcohol  www.digestivediseases.com
Excessive alcohol consumption is a major
cause of physical ill-health

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