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How to avoid bloating this Christmas

by Suzannah Olivier
continued from page 1

  • Calling all chocoholics: Instead of the family pack assortment of cheap chocolates, choose better quality 60-70 per cent cocoa solid chocolates. They are a bit more expensive but with such concentrated flavour, a little goes a very long way, meaning you are not tempted to over-indulge. They are easier to nibble at delicately, instead of necking down enough to make you feel sick.

  • Avoid large packs of nuts and crisps, which are so salty they make you reach for the fizzy drinks that bloat you up. Choose fresh nuts and invest in a nut cracker as a Christmas gift. Because they take longer to crack and nibble on, you eat less and they are much tastier and more satisfying.

  • After meals drink mint tea which is a potent digestive aid and will help your stomach to feel calm.

    • Portion control

    This is not about limiting yourself and limiting your fun, it is about listening to your body. It takes about 20 minutes for the sensation of 'fullness' from your stomach to get back to your brain. During this time you've had the chance to load up your plate again and are groaning as a result.

    Indulge in some conversation, play a game of charades or pull crackers with the kids. And 20 minutes later, decide if you really want that second portion, you probably won't.

    Grazing is also another weak point. We all do it and it is probably unrealistic to avoid it. But instead of cruising the roast potatoes or mini pork pies, pick at lean turkey or baby new potatoes.

    Alternatively, you could mash up some avocado as a dip for vegetable sticks. It is the act of grazing that is satisfying and while you won't miss the greasy food you will miss feeling bloated the next day.



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