Christmas Indulgences: Some store cupboard spices that will support your digestion over the Christmas festivities
Christmas is full of indulgences that can leave us feeling bloated, windy and just out of sorts!!
There are several spices that you will probably have to hand that can be chewed or made into simple teas that can help with various symptoms of indigestion. Many of these spices have been used in India for hundreds of years to support the digestive system.
Ginger: Ginger root has long been used to reduce pain and discomfort in the stomach. It can help soothe the digestive system and get rid of excess gas.
It also helps with nausea caused by vertigo but there is mixed evidence in it reducing nausea caused by motion sickness. Ginger is also useful for reducing the pain associated with periods and osteoarthritis, and many people swear by it for reducing headaches.
Add a few thin slices of root ginger to a cup of boiling water. Leave it to stand for 5 minutes and then sip slowly. You can also add slices of lemon.
Do not exceed 5g per day as it will increase the chances of side effects and may just increase that heartburn you are trying to get rid of!!
If you have a clotting disorder or a history of kidney stones please avoid ginger and discuss with your GP if it is suitable for you.
Fennel: Fennel seeds are effective in relaxing the muscles in the upper digestive system. They also reduce gas, bloating and stomach cramps. They will also act as a mouth freshener.
Chew a few seeds after a heavy meal or crush the seeds and add them to a cup of hot water to make a fennel tea.
Caraway and aniseed can be used in the same way as fennel and can help if overindulgence has left you constipated.
These seeds can all be added to cooking - caraway seeds work well with cabbage or carrots, fennel seeds work well with fish or in a cucumber salad, aniseed is often found in biscuits (biscotti).
Cinnamon: Cinnamon can help with indigestion, wind, nausea, heartburn and stomach cramps. Cinnamon tea is often used to aid sleep.
A sprinkle of ground cinnamon or a cinnamon stick can be added to your favourite black tea. Steep the cinnamon for about 8 minutes in boiling water, then add your tea leaves and steep for 2-3 minutes. Strain the
mix and top with boiling water.
Alternatively once the cinnamon has steeped you can add slices of apple as serve as it is.
Some simple tips that will also help:
chew your food thoroughly
take your time eating
reduce stress
reduce the amount of fizzy drinks
take a gentle walk after a meal
include lots of fibre
keep hydrated
eat real food
do not eat 3 hours before heading to bed
include good fats
include probiotic foods
Enjoy your Christmas festivities and I hope that you have a happy and health 2020.
Lesley xx
If you suffer normally from bloating, indigestion, IBS or any other gut health issue and are interested in how nutritional therapy can help you please do not hesitate to get in touch.
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