I recently commented on my social media on how I felt a little bloated and sluggish after returning from a few days of eating all around me in France. Since then I’ve had so many people get in touch asking me to share my tips on how to de-bloat and start feeling full of energy again. So today I am going to do just that. Before I do though I just want to add that I have ZERO regrets on leaving my hair down on holidays. I enjoy a very healthy balance with fitness and food and it’s my mantra for life. Holiday’s are for relaxing, de-stressing, living and enjoying – because it won’t be long before you’re back to reality. Live a balanced life.
Now on to my top tips!
1: Don’t Skip Meals
The number one rule here is not to skip meals. Just because you have overindulged does not mean you should mess with your metabolism in a bid to miss out on calories. You’ll be doing yourself more harm than good. Instead return to your usual routine and healthy eating choices.
2: Be Mindful Of Digestion
For a day or two it might be wise to try steer clear of any stodgy foods or foods that take a longer time to digest in the body. I’d recommend avoiding bread and red meat until you are feeling “normal” again. Instead choose fish or even white meat (chicken, turkey) which will be lighter on the tummy.
3: Get Back To The Gym
Exercise can really help boost not only your mood but also digestion. It’s tough getting through a session if you are feeling bloated and sluggish but you can be certain you will feel miles better for it once you are done.
4: Know The Tricks That Aid Digestion
Apple Cider Vinegar is a handy thing to have in the kitchen. It aids digestion so a quick shot will get to work and help your bodies natural rhythms. It’s not the tastiest of things but it works a treat.
Obviously drinking plenty of water is also going to help you flush out any toxins so make sure to increase the H2O. Ginger is always a good option too – especially to help with any nausea. Grate some fresh ginger into a green juice – just a small bit will go a long way. Lastly leave off the milky teas and coffees for the day and instead try some peppermint tea or fruit flavoured teas.
A nice trick to try after indulgence is to give the body a little 1 Day Detox where you eat gut friendly foods for 24 hours. Here’s a sample menu for you to try.
PRE-BREAKFAST (7:00 AM)
Large glass of water with cucumber slices (in the water) and a pinch of cayenne pepper
1 Shot of Apple Cider Vinegar
MEAL 1: (7.30am)
Green Apple Juice
What You Need:
2 husks of Kale
Large Handful of Spinach
1 Stalk Celery
Small Handful Parsley
Green Apple
200ml Coconut Water
Grated Ginger
In a juicer pop all the ingredients in and serve over ice.
In a blender blend all ingredients with water.
MEAL 2: (10.00am)
Herbal tea,
1 cup Raspberries/Blueberries/Strawberries
PRE-MEAL 3: (12.30pm)
Large glass of water with cucumber slices (in the water)
MEAL 3: (1pm)
Mango Summer Salad
What You Need:
Wild Rocket/ Spinach Leaves (or a mix of both)
6 fresh basil leaves, chopped
1 Mango, peeled and cut into chunks
1 Cucumber cut into small chunks
1 Tomato
Sweetcorn
1 Can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
2 Tbsp Almonds flakes.
Mix all ingredients into a large mixing bowl and serve with 1/2 cup brown rice.
Dress with white balsamic vinegar or apple cider vinegar and freshly squeezed lime.
MEAL 4: (3pm)
Large glass of water with fresh lemon
Hummus with carrot/celery/apple sticks
10-15 Almonds
MEAL 5: (6/7pm)
Any Veg + Quinoa
PRE BEDTIME
Chamomile or herbal tea
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