I’m jumping in for the last vlog of the year to talk to you about reflux at Christmas time. Did you know that antacids sales skyrocket at this time of year?! But that is actually one of the worst things you can do when it comes to supporting your digestion with all the Christmas food and festivities. Antacids neutralise your stomach acid which halts effective digestion.

So my top four tips to combat reflux during the holiday season are:

• Small serves – grab a little of everything. Remember, there are always leftovers! Smaller serves also help us tune into our fullness meter.
• Balanced meals – make sure your plate contains protein, healthy fats and carbohydrates with at least half your plate full of vegetables. When you load up on a refined carbohydrates or rich, fatty foods you’re more likely to run into digestive trouble. Balance is key.
• Chew your food properly – if you don’t chew thoroughly then your stomach receives more bulk and the acids and enzymes can’t do their job as effectively. We then can experience discomfort and pressure as the food makes its way further down into the small intestine. So remember, if you don’t want a food baby – chew your food properly!
• Freshly grated ginger tea – sip on this between meals to enhance motility and keep your digestion swift and efficient, rather than stagnant and bloat-promoting.
• Pre-meal tummy tea – half hour before eating, sip on my Tummy Tea. If you don’t have this, then Dandelion Root tea or Apple Cider Vinegar and warm water also works but definitely isn’t as appetising.

BONUS TIP: enjoy your food!! Relaxed, positive and mindful eating goes a long way when it comes to having symptom-free digestion.