How To Reboot Your Gut Health After the Holidays
With the Christmas feasting frenzy over for another year, it's time to turn our attention back to our gut health.
The festive cheer often comes with a side of indulgence that might leave our stomachs feeling a bit off-centre. Fortunately, with a little TLC, we can nourish and support our digestive system to get it back on track.
Let's talk about some simple ways to get your gut back to its former glory after the holiday celebrations.
How Festivities Can Mess with Your Gut Health
Ah, the joys of Christmas goodies! Is there anything better?
But, those delightful spreads can play tricks on our tummies. All those rich, heavy foods and sweet treats can upset our microbiome - contributing to bloating, discomfort, and less-than-ideal digestion.
The new year is the perfect window to give our gut health some extra love and care.
How To Reboot Your Gut Health After the Holidays
If you’re looking for ways to reboot your gut health after the holidays, we’ve got you covered. Below, we’ve listed 8 simple tips you can use to restore your gut.
1. Enjoy Prebiotic & Probiotic Foods
One of the best ways to kickstart your gut's recovery mission is by loading up on prebiotic and probiotic-packed foods.
Prebiotics, like garlic, onions, bananas, and asparagus, will work to feed the good bacteria in your gut while probiotic foods (such as yoghurt, kefir, kimchi, and sauerkraut) will replenish and diversify your gut's microbiome.
2. Grab a PERKii Probiotic
Move over, Kombucha - there's a new kid on the block that's making waves in the world of gut-friendly drinks.
PERKii’s Sparkling Probiotic drink range are the perfect tools to replenish your gut health after the holiday season. These non-fermented, naturally flavoured probiotic drinks are a game-changer for your gut health.
Bottled with 1 billion plant-based targeted release probiotics, these live cultures defy stomach acid, reaching your gut for a real impact. Plus, at only 45 calories per serving, it’s a guilt-free way to post-Christmas gut recovery.
3. Try Intermittent Fasting
Ever heard of intermittent fasting? It's a nifty little practice to give your gut a breather.
It's all about cycling between eating and fasting periods. This practice lets your digestive system take a break, giving it time to repair and reset.
Start slow with shorter fasting times - it's about finding what suits your body best.
4. Stay Hydrated
Especially after all those holiday toasts and sugary drinks, it's extra important to shift to water and keep your hydration levels up.
It’s no doubt, all those festive drinks might leave you feeling a little parched, so make sure to guzzle down enough water to keep your digestive system functioning properly.
5. Mindful Eating Continues
Though this is a great tip for maintaining your gut health over Christmas, try not to leave it behind. Even after the holidays, taking it slow and savouring each bite can do wonders for your gut.
Make healthy choices in the new year, and slow-down as you go to enjoy your meals. This practice helps your digestive system process everything more smoothly.
6. Get Moving Again
With the holidays done and dusted for another year, it's the perfect time to grb those sneakers and get moving.
Light exercises, such as a gentle stroll, can aid digestion by getting things moving. Not to mention, it's a fantastic way to kick off those post-holiday blues.
7. Include Fibre-Rich Fare
Another must-have for post-Christmas gut repair? Fibre. Be sure to load up on veggies, fruits, legumes, and whole grains in the new year.
After all, fibre is your gut's best friend. It assists with digestion and keeps everything running smoothly down there, especially after all those holiday treats.
8. Prioritise Stress Management
Last, but not least - let's not forget stress. There’s no denying that the holidays can be a bit overwhelming, so taking the time to destress can do wonders for your gut and mental health.
Meditate, do some deep breathing, or simply take a stroll. Stress can impact gut health in many ways, so giving yourself some chill time is a must-do.
In summary, rebuilding your gut health post-Christmas doesn't have to be a daunting task. Remember, it's all about small, mindful steps to get back on track.
The best thing you could do would be to embrace those probiotics, stay hydrated, get moving, and give your gut some fibre. Your tummy will thank you, and you'll be back to feeling fantastic in no time.
*The information in this article should be considered as advice only. Before using probiotics or implementing any of the information above, speak with a healthcare professional.
