The Big Game is almost here, and that means one thing: food—lots of it. Wings, chips, dips, pizza—it’s all fair game. But if you want to enjoy the action without feeling like you just got tackled by your own digestive system, a little gut-friendly strategy can go a long way. Here are 10 ways to minimize the impact of game-day feasting while still having a blast.

1. Get Outside for a Walk Before Kickoff

Before you settle in for hours of intense cheering (or nail-biting stress), take a quick walk outside. Walking helps get your digestive system moving, lowers stress levels, and gets some fresh air in your lungs before you're parked on the couch for the next four quarters. Don’t want to miss the stellar half-time performances? Try dancing like no one is watching!

2. Have Some Veggies on Your Spread

Listen, no one's saying you have to replace the wings with kale chips. Let’s not get crazy! But adding some fresh veggies to your spread can help balance out the heavier foods. Carrots, celery, bell peppers, and cucumbers pair well with dips, and they’re loaded with fiber to keep things moving in your gut.

3. Pickles for Probiotics

Pickles aren’t just for burgers—they’re a game-day MVP when it comes to gut health. Fermented pickles (the ones in the fridge section, not the shelf-stable kind) are packed with probiotics that support digestion. Pop a few on your plate or mix them into a game-day charcuterie board for an easy, gut-friendly snack.

4. Take a Halftime Break to Toss the Ball

Instead of staying glued to the TV during halftime, take the opportunity to move! Toss a football around in the backyard, take a quick walk, or do some light stretching. Movement helps stimulate digestion and keeps you from feeling sluggish. Plus, it’s a good way to burn off some of those nachos before the second half.

5. If You’re Going to Drink, Alternate with Water

Beer and cocktails are a game-day staple, but alcohol can be rough on your gut. It dehydrates you, slows digestion, and can contribute to bloating. A simple trick? For every alcoholic drink, alternate with a glass of water. This keeps you hydrated, helps your body process alcohol more efficiently, and minimizes that next-day regret.

6. Be Mindful of Portions (and Listen to Your Gut)

It’s easy to go overboard on game day, especially when there’s an endless supply of chips and dip within arm’s reach. Instead of mindlessly snacking, try to check in with your hunger levels. Are you eating because you’re hungry, or just because the food is there? Listening to your body can prevent overeating and the inevitable food coma.

7. Swap in Some Lighter Alternatives

No, we’re not suggesting you replace your buffalo wings with tofu (unless you want to!). But small swaps can make a big difference—try baked wings instead of fried, Greek yogurt dip instead of sour cream, or whole-grain crackers instead of processed ones. Even minor adjustments can be easier on digestion while still tasting great.

8. Give Your Gut a Boost with Digestive Enzymes

Let’s be real—sometimes, despite our best intentions, we go all in. If you know you’re about to indulge, take a Digestive Enzyme before eating to help break down fats, carbs, and proteins more efficiently. This can reduce bloating and discomfort so you can focus on the game, not your stomach.

9. If You Overdid It, Try No Bloat

So, you really went for it—pizza, wings, chips, beer, the works. No judgment! If you're feeling heavy and bloated post-game, a supplement like No Bloat® can help. It combines digestive enzymes and herbs to ease discomfort and get you back to feeling like yourself faster.

10. End the Night with a Soothing Tea

After a day of snacks, excitement, and (possibly) hollering at the TV, wind down with a warm cup of ginger or peppermint tea. Both are known for their digestive benefits—ginger helps settle the stomach, while peppermint can relieve bloating. It’s the perfect way to give your gut some love before calling it a night.

You can enjoy the Big Game without the post-game digestive drama with a few smart moves. So grab a plate (with some veggies on it), take that halftime stretch, and let your gut feel like a winner—no matter what happens on the field. Have questions? We’ve got answers! Contact us seven days a week at support@zenwise.com or (800) 940-2972, M-F, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.