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Drinking large amounts of Christmas alcohol, squeezing in that extra pudding and generally overindulging may mean stomach cramps, diarrhoea and vomiting (particularly from too much alcohol) or constipation, (often from too may highly refined sweet foods), while we are relaxing our digestive system is working twice as hard…

Upset stomachs

Upset stomachs may of course be due to infection. Most cases are self-limiting and only last a couple of days having been adequately dealt with by your own immune system. If the diarrhoea is very frequent and debilitating then it is useful to take something to slow it down such as Loperamide (Imodium) but not for more than 5 days. If the diarrhoea is persistent or you are unwell with a fever then it is well worth asking your GP to send a sample off to the lab in order to check for specific bacterial infections where occasionally you will need an antibiotic. This type of diarrhoea can be contracted through food poisoning – perhaps more likely if you have eaten out.

Treatment

The mainstay of treatment is to replace lost fluids. This means having a large glass of water after each bout of diarrhoea as well as your usual fluid intake. Oral rehydration drinks are an excellent way to replace lost salts and minerals. These drinks are available from pharmacies

Diet

Try and return to your normal healthy diet as soon as possible: reduce alcohol to recommended limits, avoid concentrated sugary drinks; increase fibre often lacking in the festive season, and avoid pastries, puddings and cakes, increase exercise. Healthy snacks between meals are a useful way to fill you up, keep your metabolism going and break the cycle of overindulgence.