Feeling bloated and experiencing acid reflux in front of (under) the Christmas tree

The season of fine dining and feasting is almost here again: the Christmas season. Not everyone handles this time of excessive indulgence well. Common complaints include a feeling of fullness and acid reflux. Other accompanying symptoms may include bloating, gastrointestinal problems, or nausea. The main causes of an unpleasant feeling of fullness are overly large meals, eating too quickly, and foods that are too fatty. This overloads the digestive system and can cause pressure in the upper abdomen. Acid reflux is exacerbated by large, hard-to-digest meals as well as by increased consumption of alcohol, nicotine, or coffee. The backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus can trigger typical symptoms such as heartburn, stomach pain, nausea, or coughing.

To manage these unpleasant and distressing symptoms, here are some helpful tips: Take your time when eating and chewing. Try not to eat too much. Avoid carbonated beverages and foods that cause bloating. Don’t eat too late in the evening. Warmth and gentle massages can also help, as can a post-meal walk; this is beneficial for most people suffering from these symptoms.

If health problems persist despite these tips, the following remedies from your MedicaPlus pharmacy may help: digestive teas containing caraway, fennel, and peppermint; spagyric sprays with bitter compounds that have antispasmodic and digestive-aiding effects; acid-neutralizing remedies in the form of gels; tablets that inhibit stomach acid production and thus provide relief.

With that in mind: a joyful, peaceful, and symptom-free holiday season!

Alfred Chappuis and the team at Central Apotheke