Do you find that the holidays throw your digestion off each year? A favoured festive tradition among many families is gathering to share comforting meals together. For some, this might be the best part of the holidays! With richer ingredients to choose from on the table, our digestion can get thrown off balance. 

Read on to learn our digestion tips for the holidays, so you can focus on enjoying the quality time with your loved ones. 

Disclaimer: This blog is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Please consult your health care practitioner before adding any new herbs to your wellness routine. 

5 Tips for Supporting Digestion

Tip #1: Prepare with Bitter Herbs

One of the easiest ways to prepare for large holiday meals is to keep a bottle of digestive bitters handy. Our Herbal Bitters tincture features Dandelion, Gentian and Meadowsweet to stimulate digestive enzymes and help to ease discomfort while feasting on richer meals. Try our Herbal Bitters Aperitif recipe below for a tasty and functional mocktail to drink before digging in. 

Tip #2: Avoid Food Sensitivities

Let your host know ahead of time about any food allergies you might have. When it comes time to eat, listen to your body, ask questions about the food and if possible, bring your own dish. This ensures you can indulge without risking inflammation and indigestion. 

Tip #3: Eat Mindfully

As the excitement mounts, it’s easy to load up your plate and dive right in. Try to slow down and properly chew your food. This is the first stage of digestion and makes your stomach’s job easier, especially during this season of overindulgence. Before grabbing seconds, keep in mind that it takes about 20 minutes for your stomach to register its fullness. Prevent any potential discomfort by making sure there’s room for more food! 

Tip #4: Drink Strategically

Having too many liquids in your stomach before and during a meal can dilute stomach acid. This makes it harder for your body to digest your meal. Stay hydrated, of course, but avoid big beverages within 30 minutes of your meal and take small sips while eating. Try our Calm Belly Artisan Tea once you’re ready to rest and digest. It features Peppermint, Fennel and Meadowsweet to soothe and refresh. 

Tip #5: Rest and Digest

After your meal, give your body the space to digest. Avoid any strenuous activities and if possible, avoid napping. Laying down can put you at risk for heartburn or acid reflux. Instead, take time to sit back, relax and breathe. If you feel called to move your body, try a light walk in the fresh air. The goal is to keep stress levels low as this will help your food move seamlessly through your digestive system. 

Herbal Bitters Aperitif Recipe

What You’ll Need

6ml (6 full droppers) Harmonic Arts Herbal Bitters Tincture 

6ml Harmonic Arts Ginger Syrup 

1/3 Cup Grapefruit Juice 

1 TSP Apple Cider Vinegar 

1/4 Cup Soda Water 

Raw Honey to Taste 

Ice Cubes 

Optional: Garnish with mint or orange peel. 

How to Make Your Herbal Bitters Aperitif

1. Add all ingredients aside from the Herbal Bitters to a mason jar or cocktail shaker. Seal and shake to combine. 
2. Pour over ice and add 3ml (3 full droppers) of Herbal Bitters to each glass. 
3. Sip to digestive wellness and enjoy! 

Do you feel ready for your gathering about reading our digestion tips for the holidays? Check out our Digestion Wellness Collection for more tummy-loving products.

Disclaimer: We strongly advise limiting intake to one serving daily to ensure a balanced and safe experience.