Easy Fixes For Tummy Troubles

Don’t let stomach problems ruin your Christmas. Rich food – and too much of it – plus a lack of exercise can play havoc with your digestion. Here’s how to make sure it doesn’t.

- Tanya Pearey

What’s going on?

It’s tempting to overdo the food and drink at this time of year. And with the harsh winter weather, too, it’s easy to avoid getting outside for some exercise.

All this is bad news for your digestion. ‘We can consume up to 6,000 calories on Christmas Day alone!’ says Dr Melanie Wynne-Jones. ‘It can also be hard to stick to foods that suit us best.’ But some simple measures can help us avoid or ease any tummy troubles.

Contact your GP… … if symptoms are severe or persistent

Drink a glass of water before meals and avoid the nibbles, so you don’t end up eating too much.

Resist things you know upset your tummy – even if they seem irresistible!

Don’t overdo the alcohol. Alternate with soft drinks or water, and build in some booze-free days.

Keep your medicine cupboard well-stocked, so you don’t need to find an open pharmacy in a hurry over Christmas.

Upset stomach

Christmas party food often contains less fruit, vegetables and fibre, and alcohol can be dehydrating, leading to constipation. Food that isn’t stored, cooked or reheated properly can cause diarrhoea.

If you’re constipated, eat plenty of fibre to help your food along your digestive tract. You may also need a pharmacy laxative.

Take a walk. Getting your body moving will get your bowel moving, too. Taking a brisk 20 to 30-minute walk, four times a week can help improve bowel function.