It’s festival time! Festivals are fun for everyone, and offer a much-needed break from daily stress. During the festival, sweets are a big part of the celebration. But while indulging in sweets, savoury snacks and fried foods, we forget that they can attack our digestive health, resulting in acidity and bloating. But if the damage is already done, try some of these best tips to reduce bloating and acidity.

Festival and digestive health

Health Shots got in touch with Anupama Menon, a certified nutritionist and food coach from Bengaluru, who shared a few tips to manage bloating and acidity.

Menon says, “Food becomes a big part of our celebrations, and with the kind of diversity of food because of our culture and religion, the experimentation is large and cannot be contained. Therefore, it becomes essential to keep some key aspects in mind for those who are worried about their health and also want to take care of their fitness during these festive months.”

Here are 5 tips to manage bloating and acidity issues during festival:

1. Don’t avoid your workout routine

Since it is obvious that one won’t be able to maintain a regular schedule of exercises during festival season, a morning walking routine of 20 to 25 minutes, five to six days a week, is ideal. If it is not possible in the morning, do it in the evening. A brisk walk is the best workout to follow. It also maintains your strength and keeps your stomach and heart healthy.

2. Plan your meal

Plan your daily meals around your social gathering and religious functions in advance. It will help you avoid overeating and choosing unhealthy foods. Do not overindulge in sweets or fried meals, even if it is your cheat day, as they can wreak havoc on your digestive system. It might actually take some practice, but it’s worthwhile.

Also, read: Ease period bloating with the right foods! Here’s what to eat and avoid

3. Probiotic

Your digestive system is essential for the proper functioning of your overall body. Add probiotics to your diet to keep it going and functioning normally. Your body can digest food more quickly and the bad bacteria are kept at bay with the aid of probiotics. Consume yoghurt, sauerkraut, kefir, kimchi, or tempeh. These foods will aid in avoiding gas and maintaining a healthy balance of beneficial bacteria in the digestive system.

4. Ajwain and jeera water

Many people drink jeera or ajwain water to treat acidity and other digestive difficulties. Ajwain has antibacterial qualities that treat gastrointestinal problems such as gas, flatulence, and indigestion. While drinking jeera water regularly can help to cleanse the stomach, improve digestion, and reduce gas, it also functions as a detox drink and is high in fibre.

5. Drink water

You must drink enough water and eat healthily if you drink alcohol in order to get through the unpleasant side effects. Water aids in breaking down food and nutrient absorption. Therefore, make sure you’re drinking enough water throughout the day.

Also, read: Diwali: 3 healthy dry fruits mithai recipes to sweeten your festive season

Takeaway

Festivities are a wonderful opportunity to spend quality time with your family while indulging in as much food as you like. But by keeping these tips in mind and making those tiny conscious moves as far as possible, we can still enjoy ourselves.