Most of us have experienced uncomfortable digestion at times – especially during the silly season after big festive meals. For these occasional events, you can prepare to support your digestion: How to avoid belly discomfort at Christmas.

However, some of us have digestive discomfort on a regular basis and sometimes after every meal. If you would like to support comfort after eating, there are some things that you can do to support this.

Support digestion with food

As simple as it sounds, it could be what you are eating or how you’re consuming it that is leading to digestive discomfort.

• Coffee, chocolate, spicy foods, and big meals can contribute to indigestion.
• Milk products for those who are lactose or casein intolerant will lead to an upset tummy.
• Refined sugar can affect the balance of the microbiome, so high sugar snacks and drinks may lead to bloating after meals.
• Try to limit snacks after dinner and late at night. During this break from digestion, the body activates its ‘migratory motor complex’ – which is a bit like a big deep clean for your intestines.

Tips for smooth digestion

• Plenty of fluids daily will support digestion and comfortable elimination.
• Soaking your beans and lentils before cooking help reduce gas production.
• Chew your food before swallowing – did you know that enzymes in your saliva get to work digesting straight away?
• Give your body some time to rest while eating and just afterwards to support digestion.

Feeling like you need a kick start? Why not try a Detox & Body Cleanse for a digestive system clean up.

Supplements for a settled stomach

There are so many processes involved in digestion, starting from the teeth chewing your meals – right to the final elimination via the bowel.

• If you’re feeling queasy, try a ginger supplement, or a bit of sliced ginger steeped in hot water.
• To support stomach acid, try a dash of apple cider vinegar in warm water about 30 minutes before your main meals, or a supplement containing betaine hydrochloric acid.
• To support the pancreatic enzymes after a large rich meal, try some digestive enzymes with your meal.
• To support your body’s release of bile (the substance that your body uses to break down fats), try a herbal extract containing ‘bitters herbs’ before your meal. The bitter taste supports the gall bladder to release bile in preparation for digestion. Add in some extra Liver Support.
• For digestive discomfort try a herbal extract containing chamomile or marshmallow. Chamomile is a favourite for calming kid’s tummies.
• If you are feeling a bit backed up, try some slippery elm or fibre to support healthy elimination. For more options, see our Bowel Motion Support range.

The best supplements for gut health

We have a wide range of supplements and products to support Digestion & Detox. These come in many forms, to suit your preference, and needs. See our range Health Concerns for helpful tips that you can use to support your health and wellbeing journey.