Tips to keep Christmas bloating at bay

A file photo: Times Entertainment.

Kindly share this story:

The Christmas holiday season brings joy, celebration, and abundant feasts, but it can also leave you feeling uncomfortably bloated.

That tight, swollen sensation in your abdomen doesn’t have to be an inevitable part of your celebrations. With a few strategic adjustments, you can enjoy festive meals while keeping digestive discomfort at bay.

Why You Get Bloating

Bloating happens when gas or fluid builds up in the digestive system. Johns Hopkins Medicine notes that constipation, even if you go to the bathroom regularly, can make you feel full or uncomfortable. Other common triggers include:

Heavy, fatty, or salty foods that slow digestion (think jollof rice, fried turkey, and peppered snacks).

Eating too fast while catching up with family and friends.

Fizzy drinks and alcoholic cocktails.

Foods like onions, garlic, yam, and wheat that produce gas.

Hidden intolerances, such as milk or cream in desserts and beverages.

Here Are Nine Tips to Keep Bloating Away

Take a Short Walk After Eating — 10–15 minutes helps move gas and aids digestion.

Eat Slowly — chew each bite thoroughly and pause between forkfuls.

Skip the Fizzy Drinks — water or herbal tea is easier on the stomach than soda or sparkling wine.

Control Portions — smaller servings reduce strain on your digestive system.

Drink Plenty of Water — staying hydrated prevents constipation, a major cause of bloating.

Watch Problem Foods — beans, cabbage, and dairy can cause gas; eat them in moderation.

Try Digestive Teas — peppermint or ginger tea can help release trapped gas.

Know Your Triggers — avoid foods that typically upset your stomach.

Manage Stress — take deep breaths or short breaks; stress can slow digestion.

When to See a Doctor

Occasional bloating is normal, but consult a doctor if you notice:

Bloating lasting more than a few days

Severe abdominal pain

Unexplained weight loss

Major changes in bowel habits or blood in stool

These could indicate conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), food intolerances, or other digestive disorders that require attention.

Christmas in Nigeria should be about enjoying food, family, and celebrations, not stomach discomfort.

By moving gently, eating mindfully, and staying hydrated, you can savor every festive dish without feeling weighed down. .

Hannah, a journalist with over a year of media experience, writes engaging content for social and digital media

Kindly share this story:

All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.

Contact: [email protected]

UPDATE NEWS: Nigerians can now invest ₦2.5million on premium domains and profit about ₦17-₦25Million. All earnings paid in US Dollars. Rather than wonder, 👉 click here to find out how it work (Be sure to ask for evidence of clients that have benefitted from this)

Stay informed and ahead of the curve! Follow The Punch Newspaper on WhatsApp for real-time updates, breaking news, and exclusive content. Don't miss a headline – join now!

Stay in the know—fast. Get instant alerts, breaking headlines, and exclusive stories with the Punch News App. Download now and never miss a beat.