Speedy relief from stomach woes
From the stress of prepping to the joy of eating, it’s no wonder six in 10 of us battle GI upset at holiday time. But whether you’re prone to heartburn, constipation or a mishmash of belly bothers, there’s a proven remedy!
Prone to heartburn? Sip mineral water
Hold off on the pricey heartburn remedies—sipping a 10-oz. glass of mineral water is often just as effective! German researchers say this strategy ends heartburn flares in as little as 10 minutes for 79% of women. As study co-author Andre Beer, M.D., explains, magnesiumrich mineral water neutralizes stomach acid that’s splashed up into the esophagus, plus soothes irritated throat tissue.
Gassy or burpy? Snack on ginger
When your body releases enough digestive enzymes, you can handle even heavy holiday meals without getting burpy or gassy. And candied ginger helps that happen! Canadian researchers say this spicy-sweet treat brims with a compound
(zingibain) that encourages digestiveenzyme release, cutting gas by as much as 55% if you eat a piece before meals.
Trouble going? Touch your toes!
A little movement can be powerful medicine! Simply take 15 minutes to stretch daily and you’ll cut your risk of constipation by as much as 75%, say UCLA researchers. Joseph Brasco, M.D., coauthor of Restoring Your Digestive Health, explains that even short bouts of gentle movement stimulate the intestinal muscle contractions that help us stay regular.
Stomach cramps? Try this yeast
A unique form of yeast called Saccharomyces bou
lardii acts like a gentle probiotic— and it’s so powerful that University of Kansas researchers say taking one capsule daily can cut cramps, bloat and diarrhea flares by as much as 75%. A brand to try: Now Foods Saccharomyces Boulardii (iherb.com). Note: Check with your doctor before taking supplements.