From festive feasts with copious amounts of spirits to tempting treats that are hard to avoid, it's easy to overindulge around this time of year. Unfortunately, this can often lead to that uncomfortable feeling of bloating. And we’re not about to suggest that you swear off all the decadent offerings of the season.

But fear not! With a few simple strategies, you can beat holiday bloating and fully savor the season without the discomfort. In this blog, we'll explore five effective ways to keep bloating at bay during the holidays.

1. Stay Hydrated
   One of the most common causes of bloating is dehydration. During the holiday season, many people consume more salt and sugar than usual, which can cause the body to retain water. This water retention can lead to bloating. To counteract this, make sure to stay well-hydrated throughout the day. Drinking plenty of water helps flush excess sodium from your system and aids digestion.
   
   In addition to plain water, consider sipping on herbal teas like peppermint or ginger tea or our Gut Loving Golden Milk Latte recipe. These natural remedies have been shown to help soothe the digestive system and reduce bloating. Opt for water-rich foods like cucumbers and celery to boost your hydration levels further. For more tips, head to 5 Ways to Get Your Digestion Back on Track.
   
2. Mindful Eating
   During holiday gatherings, it's easy to get caught up in the festivities and mindlessly consume large quantities of food. Grandma, we love your thoughtfully prepared dishes, but second and third helpings can overwhelm your digestive system and lead to bloating. To avoid this, practice mindful eating.
   
   Take the time to savor each bite, chew your food thoroughly, and pay attention to your body's hunger and fullness cues. Eating slowly and mindfully can help prevent overeating, reduce the chances of bloating, and fully allow you to enjoy the flavors of your holiday meals.
   
   
3. Get Fiber Friendly!
   Fiber is your digestive system's best friend. It promotes regular bowel movements and helps prevent constipation, which can contribute to bloating. Incorporate fiber-rich foods into your holiday meals to support healthy digestion.
   
   Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes in your holiday dishes. These foods provide essential nutrients while also keeping your digestive system running smoothly. Fiber helps you feel full, reducing the likelihood of overindulging in less healthy options.
   
   
4. Get Moving
   Physical activity can do wonders for your digestive system. When you're feeling bloated after a big meal, a short walk or some gentle stretches can help alleviate discomfort. Exercise stimulates the muscles in your digestive tract, promoting the movement of food through your system.
   
   Make it a holiday tradition to take a family walk after meals or set aside some time for yoga or light exercises. These activities not only aid digestion but also provide an opportunity for quality time with loved ones. For more info, head to our blog on the 7 Surprising Benefits of Exercise.
   
   
5. Probiotics for Gut Health
   A balanced and healthy gut is crucial in preventing bloating and digestive discomfort. Probiotics, the beneficial bacteria in fermented foods and supplements, can help maintain gut health. Consider incorporating probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi into your holiday diet. You may also benefit from a quality dietary supplement featuring digestive enzymes and probiotics. In many cases, these digestive enzyme supplements can help break down hard-to-digest carbohydrates, such as lactose. For more info, read our blog on Digestive Enzymes FAQs. Probiotics can help improve the gut’s bacterial balance and help reduce gas production and bloating.
   
   Fortunately, Zenwise® offers a unique supplement that checks all the boxes†. NO BLØAT™ supports the breakdown of lactose (hello, eggnog!) and helps aid against gas and bloating. Clinically studied BioCore® Optimum Complete (digestive enzymes) and DE111® (a spore-forming probiotic) combined with a botanical blend to support normal digestion, breaking down FODMAP foods for a healthy GI tract.

The above tips can go a long way in combating occasional bloating and gas, whatever the season. For more commonsense advice, head to So, You Over Did It: Here’s a Reset. Looking for more ways to beat the bloat? Our knowledgeable customer service team is here to help! Reach them at support@zenwise.com or M-F from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST at (800) 940-1972.

And as always, all Zenwise® products are backed by the "Eat Freely...or it’s Free" guarantee!

Zenwise®. Then Eat.™