It’s that “eat, drink, and be merry” time of year again! Which means we will be enjoying richer foods than we are used to. Indulging in our favorite family recipes and special treats can bring us a lot of joy…and possibly a stomachache. 

6 Ways to Keep our Digestion in Check this Holiday Season: 

1. Apple Cider Vinegar: Mix 1 tbsp of ACV into a glass of water and drink it 10 minutes before meals. This helps to balance our blood sugar, strengthening hunger cues.

2. Manage Stress: The holidays can be a busy and stressful time. High stress levels can weaken our digestive function, so let’s stick to our favorite self-care practices like solo walks, meditation, yoga, deep breathing, and journaling.

3. Slow Down & Savor: Take your time with each bite. Savor the flavors and the experience. When we eat slowly and mindfully, it encourages proper absorption and assimilation of our food. We will also be more aware of fullness cues, which helps to reduce bloating, gas, and digestive discomfort.

4. Post-Meal Walks: After a large meal, it can be helpful to go for a 10 minute walk to bring energy and circulation to our digestive tract. Encourage the whole family to join!

5. Incorporate Healing Foods & Herbs: When not indulging in holiday foods, prioritize nutrient-dense whole foods like bone broth, dark leafy greens, and fiber-rich vegetables. Herbal teas like spearmint, peppermint, and ginger, are also beneficial.

6. Bao He Wan Formula: This Chinese herbal formula is something we can all keep in our medicine cabinet. It is incredibly effective at decreasing indigestion, abdominal distention, and bloating, after a large meal. This formula is for short-term use only and contains wheat, so caution for anyone with a gluten allergy. If you’re a patient and would like to pick up a bottle before the holiday festivities begin, send me a DM!

PC: Cloudy Kitchen