The festive season usually means eating and indulging in delicious and often sugary and oily foods. These foods cause weight gain and may even affect our digestive system and lead to heartburn, acid reflux, and other digestive issues. This year, we are encouraging people to eat smart and take steps to ensure their gut health stays on track.
According to Fredrick Kizito, president of the Uganda Dietetics Association and a Registered Nutritionist, many people forget about their diet during the holiday season. Kizito explains that most people eat meals they would not normally eat, which could lead to over-eating.
While consuming different types of food is essential, Kizito says we must control what we consume during the holidays. He recommends that we eat smaller portions and many fruits and vegetables.
Eating slowly and chewing well before swallowing will help your stomach digest the food properly. It also helps to sit down and relax while you eat, as it will be easier to recognize when you are full. Taking your time to eat will also help you avoid overeating and the subsequent problems that come with it.
During the festive season, we indulge in fatty meats like beef, ham, potatoes, and cakes. While these are part of the regular diet, watching how much we eat is essential, as too much can lead to weight gain and obesity.
Additionally, drinking too much alcohol during this period can also lead to digestive problems like indigestion and heartburn. The consumption of alcoholic beverages relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter, making it easier for acids to flow into the throat.
Common indigestion triggers during the festive season include peppermint, chocolate, and caffeine-containing foods. These can worsen the problem for those with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
This season, we must pay attention to our gut health, as it directly affects our overall well-being. The good news is that certain foods and drinks can help improve our digestion, such as yogurt, ginger and fennel.
While it is impossible to avoid the festive season treats altogether, it is possible to control what we eat by following proper portion control and exercising regularly. By doing this, we can prevent heartburn and other digestive issues from occurring while still enjoying our favorite festive foods. In addition, we should hydrate with water and limit the amount of sugary drinks we consume. Moreover, we should keep an antacid on hand like Rennie to neutralize excess stomach acid and provide immediate relief from heartburn. The festive season should be a time for celebration, not discomfort.
