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What Happens to Your Body When You Overeat at Christmas

What Happens to Your Body When You Overeat at Christmas

Christmas feasts often pile on the courses—three or even four in a sitting. Overindulging can trigger uncomfortable symptoms. Here's what happens to your body when you eat too much, based on common physiological responses.

A Bloated Belly

A bloated stomach often stems from swallowing air while eating too quickly or not chewing thoroughly. Slow down, chew mindfully, and savor each bite to prevent it. Carbonated drinks add gas, so opt for sips of water between courses instead.

Read also: "You can do this for a bloated stomach"

Nausea

Bloating frequently leads to nausea, especially after fatty meals that take longer to digest. Overeating signals your body to expel the excess. Chew slowly and moderate fatty foods to keep nausea at bay.

Post-Meal Slump (After-Dinner Dip)

Large meals spike blood sugar as your body digests, causing fatigue known as the after-dinner dip. It's normal to feel the urge for a rest afterward.

Diarrhea

Too much sugar from holiday treats ferments in your gut, pulling in fluids and leading to diarrhea. Excess sugars flood the intestines rapidly, resulting in loose stools.

Trouble Falling Asleep

Digesting heavy loads of sugars and fats keeps your body working overtime at bedtime, making sleep elusive. Stop eating earlier if you can; otherwise, unwind on the couch beforehand.

Source: dailymail.co.uk