Bloating is the worst.
When you feel uncomfortably full and gassy, or have stomach pain after eating, there’s often little you can do about it other than wait for it to pass.
That might mean you’re experiencing some slightly embarrassing bodily noises and odours as the excess air makes its way out of your body.
But the worst part of bloating is the discomfort. It can cause stomach pain and a distended belly, and just make you feel generally a bit rubbish – which isn’t what you want after all the fun of Christmas Day.
So, if you’re struggling with bloating right now – are there any home remedies you can try to make yourself feel better?
How to reduce bloating
It’s probably not the advice you really want to hear, but the experts suggest being a bit careful when it comes to rich food.
James Kinross is a consultant colorectal surgeon at King Edward VII’s Hospital, London, he says fatty foods and processed foods, or too much sugar, can be a real trigger.
‘Things like pigs in blankets, or picking at a selection box can lead to bloating, so instead try to opt for a balanced diet over Christmas, with plant-based options, which will give your gut the diversity it needs to function properly,’ James tells Metro.co.uk.
‘If you have overindulged though, as many of us do, keeping active can also help to beat Christmas bloating and stimulate the digestive system. Rather than sitting down to enjoy a Christmas film after dinner, try getting up to go for a 45-minute walk.’
It’s not just the food we need to watch out for either, what we’re drinking can have a big impact on the bloat.
‘Make sure you’re drinking plenty of water if you want to enjoy alcohol, which disrupts the balance of bacteria within the gut and its ability to function,’ says James.
‘Drinking an excessive amount makes it difficult for your body to break down and digest nutrients. So, if you want to enjoy a drink or two, try alternating in between with a glass of water.’
There are a few other steps you take to try to cut down on festive bloating. Firstly, try cutting down on foods known to cause wind and bloating, such as beans, onions, cabbage, sprouts and cauliflower.
If you get constipation alongside your bloating, the NHS suggests adding more fibre to your diet, drinking lots of fluids and exercising regularly. Even a 20-30 minute brisk walk, four times a week can improve your bowel function.
You should also try to think about how you’re eating. Slowing down can make a big difference, as well as sitting down to eat and cutting down how much you’re talking during a meal – because this can cause you to swallow air as you eat.
‘If you notice you’re bloating very often, or if it is especially painful, or any other new and persistent symptoms, you should go and see a doctor,’ says James.
‘And you should also seek help if you are experiencing symptoms such as weight loss or a persistent change in your bowel habits.
‘I always tell my patients to listen to their bodies. If something doesn’t feel right, or you’ve noticed changes lasting for more than a couple of weeks, it’s best to get it checked out.’
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