Holiday Overload?

Use this quick guide to find the best natural remedy for common digestive complaints

Overindulging on food and drink is common during the holidays. Unfortunately, it often results in stomach discomfort, heartburn, gas, bloating, burping, or nausea. Here are some must-have antidotes to have on hand:

Upset Stomach from Overindulgence

Try: Papaya enzymes.
Benefits: These work similarly to an over-the-counter antacid tablet. They help the body break down macronutrients such as carbohydrates, fats, and protein, thereby alleviating that heavy, bloated feeling.
What to Buy: Chewable tablets.
Also Good: Digestive bitters, a blend of herbs that can be taken before meals to enhance digestion, or after meals to relieve feelings of fullness.

Indigestion, Gas, & Bloating

Try: Digestive enzymes.
Benefits: Eases symptoms associated with food intolerances (e.g., gluten, dairy) and digests foods more completely (incomplete digestion is one of the main causes of stomach troubles).
What to Buy: Use a vegetarian formula that contains a full range of enzymes.
Also Good: Ginger tea after a heavy meal.

Heartburn & Acid Reflux

Try: Slippery elm and/or licorice.
Benefits: Soothes irritated mucous membranes, including those that line the esophagus, and reduces inflammation of the intestinal tract.
What to Buy: Use capsules and liquid tinctures over teas for faster relief.
Also Good: Betaine HCl, which boosts stomach acid (many cases of heartburn are caused by too little-not too much-stomach acid).