For most of us, the holidays mean eating and drinking more than usual and indulging in rich food and drink our bodies may not be accustomed to. Digestive problems are very common around the holidays and for some, they are the norm.

At least 15 percent of Americans deal with digestive problems on a daily basis, and more than 50 percent complain of them occasionally. Each year we spend more than one billion on heartburn remedies alone! But the best solution is not to pop a pill every time you have a tummy ache. You must correct the cause of the problem, otherwise your symptoms will return.

Our digestive systems are closely linked to our nervous systems, so it isn’t always as simple as a second helping of potatoes or pie or one too many beers that upsets our stomachs. Stress, anxiety, disappointment and even excitement play a big role in our digestive health. These emotions abound at this time of the year, and may be even more of a factor with our continuing sluggish economy stealing our peace of mind.

People who suffer on a regular basis or have had indigestion for two or more weeks need a medical evaluation, but for those of us who are occasional holiday bingers, here’s a guide to some natural cures.

Aromatherapy: The underlying principle of this method of healing is that there is a direct link between the stomach and the emotions. Anyone who’s ever smelled the aroma of an anticipated meal cooking needs no convincing of the link between our emotions and our digestive functions. Aromatherapists recommend inhaling essential oils of lavender, lemon grass, lemon, juniper and bergamot too soothe an upset stomach.

Ayurveda: Proper eating habits are at the core of India’s 5,000 year-old holistic healing system. Preventive measures include eating meals at regular intervals, with the largest meal at midday when the body’s digestive ‘fire’ is strongest. Avoid cold or iced drinks, which deplete the body’s fire. Eat fresh foods. Take herbal supplements formulated to improve digestion and balance stomach acid. These include exotic ingredients like gooseberry, nutgrass and butterfly pea.

Homeopathy: Homeopathic remedies can work very well for occasional issues like gas, heartburn and indigestion caused by overeating and drinking. Preparations with unusual names like nux vomica, lycopodium, carb vegetabilis, and bryonia alba can relieve symptoms of bloating, frequent belching, excessive gas, stomach pressure, heartburn and hiccups. Newark Natural Foods carries Bach’s remedies for these symptoms and more.

Herb Therapy: Perhaps the best-known and oldest cure for stomach troubles is gingerroot. Traditional Chinese medicine has been prescribing it for 2,500 years. Ginger can stimulate sluggish digestion, keep intestinal muscles toned, ease transport of material through the digestive tract, reduce irritation to the intestinal walls and help with production and secretion of bile in the liver and gallbladder. You can drink ginger tea or take capsules available at most health food stores such as Newark Natural Foods.

Other herbs that provide relief include chamomile, peppermint, licorice, caraway, cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, coriander, garlic, onion, sage and marshmallow root. These are available as teas or capsules at health food stores or you can add them fresh to your recipes.

The best cure for stomach problems is prevention. Exercise regularly, ideally before breakfast. Chew food slowly and eat plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains and high-fiber foods. Don’t eat too late in the day (less than 2 hours before bedtime). Don’t eat when you’re tense. Instead, make mealtime as relaxing as possible. Sit still for five minutes after eating and avoid coffee, tea or carbonated drinks and spicy, fried, processed and high-fat foods if these have irritated your stomach in the past. Happy holidays and be well!

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