Health and the Festive Season – Tip #2

by | Dec 7, 2015 | Digestive health, Herbal medicine, Nutrition, Seasonal health, Tips & Tricks | 0 comments

Let’s be honest with one another.

For many of us, over the coming month there will be a larger than usual amount of rich food and celebratory drinks consumed.

So be it. Enjoy!

However, if you are planning to indulge in lashings of delicious excess, spare a thought for your digestive system.

Digestion is important, ok? Ok.

Easy fix #2 –> Digest your food

Many people feel sluggish after – and often during – the festive season. Unused to dealing with large quantities of rich food and drinks, our bodies work less efficiently and it’s not uncommon to feel unwell … anything from bloating and abdominal pain, to headaches and fatigue.

But. I have good news for you: it doesn’t have to be that way!

The obvious advice is to practice moderation. Please, just give it try. Sloooooow down, one bite at a time.

In lieu of that, let’s talk digestive function. That way you can make better use of all the fuel that’s consumed during the festivities and enjoy indulging, without the aftermath.

chamomile peppermint rose

Chamomile, peppermint and some rose petals make a beautiful digestive blend

Lemon juice / apple cider vinegar in water: first thing in the morning and/or between meals, this will increase overall hydration and give your digestive system a little kick up the pants. You can also use these as salad dressing, combined with olive oil, pepper and garlic. Same deal.

Digestive bitters: herbs such as gentian, ginger, dandelion and angelica are all excellent stimulants for the digestive system. Usually taken just before a meal, these herbs will stimulate saliva production, digestive enzyme and bile secretion; all of which enhance your body’s digestive function.

Herbal tea: teas that aid digestion include chamomile, peppermint, ginger, rosehip, rooibos, lemongrass and dandelion. Sip regularly and often. You can also make an iced brew – just decant into a jar or bottle and pop into the fridge. Serve with a wedge of lime, some chopped berries, or neat. Delicious.

Remember your veg: the fibre (not to mention nutrients) found in fresh veggies will keep things moving smoothly. So, my dears, be sure to take a decent serve of salad AND steamed greens at every meal.

Doesn’t sound like much right? I know! But I’m telling you, it will make a difference. Give it a try and tell me how you feel.

 

The previous festive fix #1 – Eat real food

The next festive fix #3 – Drink water