new year excesses

10 Ways to Overcome New Year Excesses

All the festivities and indulgences of New Year celebrations are over. Take good care of your digestive system in 2017 with some useful and tested tips

As 2017 begins, many of us may have indulged in eating too much unhealthy food. Going overboard with festive drinking is also common during New Year celebrations. It is only when the festivities come to an end that your health begins to show signs of stress.

One of the first victims of New Year celebrations is the human digestive system.

Too much unhealthy food certainly spells trouble. If proper and timely care is not taken, then the body will have difficulty not only in digesting food, but in the intake of nutrients.

Here are some suggestions to have a problem-free digestive system this New Year:

  • Increase fiber intake: A diet rich in fiber, whole grains, vegetables, legumes and fruits works wonders for the digestive system. The fiber-rich diet helps maintain food movement through the digestive system. As a result, the person feels less constipated. More fiber consumption also treats digestive conditions like diverticulosis, hemorrhoids, and irritable bowel syndrome.
  • Eat less fatty food: The consumption of less fatty food is usually prescribed for a good digestive system. This is because fatty foods slow down digestion. However, experts recommend that you don’t avoid fatty food completely. Instead, combine it with fiber-rich foods for a balanced diet.
  • Regular exercise: The digestive system benefits from regular exercise as the movement helps the food move faster through the large intestine. Exercise also helps contract the intestinal muscles, which benefits stool movement.
  • Eat on time: Experts say that eating on time is very important for the digestive system. Follow a regular schedule while eating meals and snacks for good digestion.
  • Drink enough water: Water is very important for a healthy digestive system. The presence of plenty of water gives the digestive system enough moisture to function smoothly.
  • Include healthy bacteria in your diet: Sometimes, external factors can cause imbalances in the digestive tract bacteria. Probiotics, like the ones in dairy products, bring in the required ‘good bacteria’ into the digestive system, thus helping it to work properly.
  • Avoid stress: Stress can negatively impact your digestive system, bringing about unwanted changes. Take part in stress-reducing activities to safeguard your digestive system.
  • Eat slowly: One should always eat slowly during meals as it helps the digestive system break down the food better. Chew the food slowly as it will increase the digestive enzymes in the mouth. This is very useful for the digestive process.
  • Avoid alcohol, smoking and coffee: Excessive smoking, drinking and coffee is not recommended for the digestive system as it can cause stomach ulcers and heartburn. These digestive problems are seen more during festivities like New Year.
  • Use a smaller plate: Start using a smaller plate as it translates into lesser food consumed. When less food is consumed, it helps with weight management as well as less digestive tract problems.