Dealing with heartburn and bloating

Research reveals around 60% of us admit this is the time of year we’re most likely to overindulge, with many of us eating up to four times as much as normal. This results in a number of tummy troubles.
“Festive digestive problems are linked to the quantity of food we eat,” explains gastroenterologist Anton Emmanuel. “The stomach is a muscle trained to digest the amounts of food we eat on a normal daily basis, so it can be a real shock to the system when we hit the festive season.” Here’s how to treat common tummy problems...
Heartburn Spot it: A nasty burning feeling in the chest and bitter taste in your mouth — caused by excess stomach acid flowing back up your oesophagus — also known as ‘acid reflux’. Fix it: If heartburn strikes, wear loose clothing. “Tight clothes make us clench the muscles in our torso, making it easier for acid to rise up,” explains Emmanuel. You could also ask your doctor to prescribe you medication, which works by neutralising stomach acid and forming a barrier to prevent stomach contents coming back up.
Wind and bloating Spot it: An uncomfortable bloating feeling in the stomach after eating, often with embarrassing gas. If you’re prone to bloating, try not to eat too quickly as this makes you swallow more air, which heightens your risk of discomfort. Fix it: For immediate relief, try an over-the-counter indigestion remedy to target bloating.
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) Spot it: IBS can trigger cramps, bloating and alternating bouts of constipation and diarrhoea. Fix it: Lower your stress levels. Try and get 10 minutes of me-time every day to sit quietly and focus on deep breathing as this may also help reduce painful cramping. In case you experience a flare up, take over-the-counter medication.
(— Daily Mirror)