As well as the parties, presents and more parties, at Christmas there seems to be the feeling that we have to eat and drink all we 
see!
While it is nice to enjoy festive food and the odd tipple, going mad at the buffet table isn’t great for your waistline, and it can leave you feeling bloated, uncomfortable and lethargic.
We have had a look at how you can beat the bloat this Christmas and still enjoy the goodies that are on offer, and slump in front of the TV without feeling totally out of control.
Keep an eye on portions
One of the most common cause of bloating is over indulgence, which comes as part and parcel of Christmas for many of us. Try to avoid eating massive meals as this can leave you feeling uncomfortably full and bloated, and instead, go eat less but more often, and you will be able to enjoy what’s on off but without suffering.
Know your carbs
Those white bread sandwiches, loaded baguettes and mayo heavy pasta salads might look tempting, but they can actually slow down your digestion and will also mean you aren’t getting the fibre you need in your diet. Why not think about swapping these refined carbs for wholegrains which will give you the fibre you need, will help with digestion and also keep bloating at bay. Quinoa, brown rice and wholegrain bread are all great, tasty options, and if you start your day with a bowl of porridge, with a sprinkle of cinnamon for a Christmas twist, you will feel so much better and bloating will be the last thing on your mind.
Put the Spanx away
While you might reach for those super holding, control pants when it comes to fitting into that Christmas dress, you could be contributing to the problem of bloating. If you know you have big meals coming up, why not go for floaty clothing and easy to wear layers, and then enjoy the day and your food without your clothes cutting into you.
Drink tea
Put the sparking wine and fizzy pop away, and sip on tea if you are filling a little fuller than you would like. Mint and ginger are known for their health benefits and can just take the edge of bloating.
Don’t eat too late
Having a three course meal and bottle of wine at 9pm might feel like a good idea at the time, but may not feel the same way when you are trying to sleep and are wide awake at 3am. Lying down too soon after eating can make it harder for your stomach to digest food and can cause acid reflux and you don’t want either, especially if you have a busy day ahead with family and friends.
Think about salt
Crisps, peanuts, slices of pizza and dips all contain salt and when you eat too much, your body may well try to retain water and this can lead to uncomfortable bloating. Ease up on processed food, add spices to food rather than salt, ensure you get your five a day (no, salty, greasy chips don’t count) and always drink plenty of water.
Watch the wind
Cabbage, sprouts, garlic and onions are all on the table at Christmas, but these festive favourites can cause bloating and wind, so go easy on them!
Water, water, water
We talk about it all the time, but it is vital to drink plenty of still water if you want to keep hydrated. Add slices of lemon and sprigs of mint, go for filtered options and leave the fizz for a while to ensure you don’t go pop!
Get some exercise
You aren’t going to go for a 10k run on Christmas Day, but a walk in the park after lunch or a bike ride on Boxing Day not only gives you some fresh air and takes any family tensions away, but the exercise will be good for your health and waistline too.
Whatever you do this Christmas, have a great time!
Team Pure Beauty
Last updated on 20/12/2018.