How to feast without the bloat this Christmas

How to feast without the bloat this Christmas

 The festive season is here, and we’re all looking forward to enjoying everything from strolling through holiday markets to sharing a delicious roast with loved ones.

After indulging in all of the Christmas delicacies, only to be met with that not-so-wonderful, bloated feeling and the inevitable crash out that comes with it – fret not, we've all been there – after. Not exactly the present you were hoping for!

The good news is it doesn’t have to be that way! You can still enjoy your favourite treats without the uncomfortable side effects. In this blog, we’ll explore smart food choices and holiday gut health tips to keep your gut feeling merry and bright, so let’s unwrap some tips to beat the bloat and make your holiday as comfortable as it is delicious!

Tis the season to sip slowly!

Ah, the holidays —filled with joy, laughter, and yes, a merry bit of indulgence! But before you fill your glass up to the brim, it’s worth thinking about why it’s important to sip slowly during the festive season.

According to research from Drinkaware ^[1], on average, men admit to consuming six drinks on Christmas day, which is the equivalent of 14 units of alcohol. Meanwhile, women also admit to having four and a half drinks during the day. While this indulging can be fun at the time, overdoing it can leave your gut feeling less than merry and may lead to a host of unpleasant side effects, including:

• Slower digestion: Overindulging in alcohol can slow digestion, causing discomfort and bloating as your body struggles to process the food.
• Nausea and upset stomach: Excessive alcohol can irritate your stomach lining, leading to nausea and an upset stomach that dampens holiday cheer.
• Increased anxiety: What starts as a stress reliever can turn into heightened anxiety once the effects wear off.
• Sleep disruption: While it may help you fall asleep, alcohol disrupts your sleep cycle, robbing you of rest needed for festivities.
• And of course, a nasty hangover: The inevitable hangover can leave you with headaches, fatigue, and a general malaise that ruins the holiday spirit.

So, this Christmas, remember it’s not just about what’s in your glass, but how you enjoy it! Try savouring your drinks more or maybe even try swapping out some of your favourite beverages for some low or alcohol-free options. Just in time for those New Year resolutions as well!

Have yourself a merry little stroll!

After feasting on a Christmas dinner, a festive walk can be just what you (and your gut) need! Taking a leisurely post-meal stroll helps to improve digestion, easing that full feeling. Even just a 10-minute stroll around the block can stimulate your digestion and help alleviate gas that leads to trapped wind.

It’s a simple yet festive way to unwind and bond with family or friends, so bundle up, step outside, and have yourself a merry little stroll to keep both your gut and spirit bright throughout Christmas.

Sprout… sprout… let it all out

Ah, the brussel sprout-ingly, a festive staple for many in the UK. Surprise only 21% of the UK population consider themselves unlikely to indulge in these so-called "mini cabbages^[2]. " As a cruciferous vegetable (alongside broccoli, cabbage, and kale), Brussels sprouts are packed with valuable micronutrients, including Vitamin K and folate. The darker varieties have higher antioxidants like Vitamins A and C, which are fantastic for gut health!

This is where the power of a well-rounded plate comes in! Adding plenty of seasonal vegetables like roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, and hearty winter greens not only adds variety, but also brings fibre, vitamins, and nutrients to balance out the heavier holiday dishes and snacks. Without this balance, we risk feeling sluggish, bloated, and weighed down—even before tackling the leftovers! For more gut-friendly recipes to complement your festive season, check out our full recipe collection here.

Sleigh bells ring, are you resting?

With all the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, it can be easy to forget how important it is to properly rest. Taking some time to recharge is one of the best gifts you can give your gut this Christmas! When we’re sleep-deprived or overly stressed, our digestive system can take a hit, often contributing to poor digestion which can lead to issues such as bloating and discomfort.

Quality rest helps to reduce stress hormones like cortisol, which can disrupt your gut function. This mind-gut connection is powerful: the more we stress over potential tummy troubles, the more likely our gut is to react, creating a loop of anxiety and discomfort. Keeping your mood and gut health balanced this Christmas season can work wonders—nurturing one positively impacts the other!

Taking time for activities you enjoy—whether it’s listening to a bit of Bublé, cosying up with a classic Christmas film, or baking some festive treats—can help calm your nervous system and reduce stress. Check our quick self-care tips for a happy gut here!

Give your gut (and your loved ones) the gift of support with our supplements!

If you’re looking for that extra gut support this Christmas, try Bimuno® Immunity, our high-fibre prebiotic supplement that has been scientifically proven to feed the good gut bacteria and provide essential nutrients for a healthy immune system – IN JUST 7 DAYS!*

Don’t forget your little ones! Supporting their health is just as important, especially when they’re surrounded by the sugary treats and festivities. Our Kids Immunity can help support their gut and immune system during the holiday season. Keep them happy and healthy with this simple addition to their routine!

So, make this holiday even brighter by gifting your loved ones—and yourself—the much-needed care and support with Bimuno®!

*Results may vary.