Dousing the Heartburn

It doesn8217;t help that everyone around is immersed in a hedonistic eating spree, interrupted solely by bouts of drinking. My professional instincts struggle to stay afloat, much like the pot-bellied men in the pool.

It is becoming abundantly clear that this is not the best time to preach 8212; or practice 8212; moderation of any kind, least of all on food and beverages.

Yet in the middle of all this indulgence, I have already been badgered by three guests badly in need of repair 8212; chance acquaintances, who managed to discover my calling just in time.

Which is why I thought it would be good to provide some simple damage control measures for the splurging to come.

The most common and immediate symptoms that many of us shall face will be that of fullness and bloating. These symptoms of indigestion occur when we consume more than normal amounts. The culprits are usually excess caffeine or alcohol, but plain old overeating it enough too. And without doubt, eating in a state of excitement and in a hurry contribute just as much.

Fortunately there are some easy remedies.

8226; Nothing like the time tested yogic posture of Vajrasana for about 20-30 minutes. Go easy if you have discomfort in your limbs at first and use a cushion to rest lower part of your shins. Any well written book on yoga shall describe this asana which is one of the best remedies for aiding digestion after any and every meal.

8226; Another very effective remedy is the ayurvedic formlation of Triphala 8212; which has three well known, natural and very safe ingredients. Triphala has the added advantage of being a detoxfier and a colon cleanser. This is easily available in powder or capsule form at most chemists.

8226; If you feel the need to soothe the linings of your stomach, try a decoction of Ajwain Bishop8217;s weed or Sauf Aniseed. This is easily prepared by boiling one teaspoon of sauf or ajwain in a glass of drinking water. Strain and cool before consuming. This can be had two to three times in a day after meals or when needed.

8226; If you need something palatable and effective at the same time, try a mixture of honey, lemon juice and ginger juice in equal proportion. Taken after meals it enhances the digestive process.

8226; Jamun vinegar, available at most ayurvedic stores, is a very useful digestive. It can be sprinkled on salads.

8226; Crushed mint leaves and grated ginger brewed together like tea is also beneficial.

8226; If bloating is the chief complaint, then a carminative found on your kitchen shelves will work wonders. Mix a teaspoon of methi fenugreek seeds with a pinch of hing asafoetida. Swallow it with a glass of water.

8226; I am amazed at how little attention we pay to the lowly papaya. The papaya and pineapple are two fruits rich in digestive enzymes.

8226; Those who feel that they can have some more food after a bout of overeating will do well to have some fresh yoghurt. Just remember to add a little black salt and ajwain. This will speed up your digestion.

8226; For extreme cases of bloating try and check with your physician to get a prescription of activated charcoal tablets which can absorb the gases .

8226; And finally the best remedy 8212; a glass of water! Not before or after but instead.

In general, the precaution to be taken is not to retire to bed soon after a heavy meal. Eat, drink and be merry but do chew well on your food and on the above suggestions to tide over this period. Best wishes for the New Year.