Everything In Moderation, Right?

by: AndreaDow
Total views: 617
Word Count: 695

Thursday, August 16th

We know that it is best to do and consume things in moderation. But what happens when life gets crazy and we have overdone it on exercise, food, caffeine and more? Read on to find some simple solutions to everyday overindulgences and learn how to alleviate your uncomfortable symptoms thanks to Maura Rhodes of Real Simple magazine.

What if you...
Ate the whole box of cookies?
*According to gastronenterologist Patricia Raymond, you will just have to wait until your stomach empties to get complete relief. In the meantime, make sure you avoid lying down for the next 3-4 hours (otherwise, gastric acids will travel up) and avoid most antacids which will actually encourage your stomach to make more acids (the exception is Gaviscon). Try going for a walk to speed up digestion, but skip bouncing which can move stomach acids up to the throat. Don't forget to loosen your belt, too.

Are regretting that last shot at the bar?
*Unfortunately there is no way to speed up detox. After you have given your keys to a friend, stay put for the evening. If you have an upset stomach, try Pepto-Bismol. Eating bland carbohydrates like dry toast can ease a quesy stomach. Drinking lots of fluids is a great way to counteract the dehydrating effects of alcohol. Interestingly, ice-cold or very hot beverages can upset the stomach so stick with room temperature liquids. Asprin or ibuprofen can help with a headache but avoid acetaminophin because in conjunction with alcohol, it can cause liver damage.

Pulled an all-nighter?
*Your best bet is try sneaking in a nap and consuming energy-building foods and drinks. We cannot make up for lost time when it comes to sleep, but we can catch some new z's according to Georgia Witkin, Ph.D., from NYC. Try to get two ten minute naps or one 20 minute nap in during the day. Small doses of caffeine throughout the day (two ounces of coffee/ hour or four ounces of tea/ hour) will help you improve concentration. Make sure you stop drinking caffeine about six hours before bedtime to avoid ruining another night's sleep. Also, steer clear of carbs in cookies, donuts, candy and bread which will spike your blood sugar and make it even harder to stay alert once the spike is over.

Stayed out in the sun too long?
*Susan Wienkle, assistant professor of dermatology at the University of South Florida, Tampa, says we need to take a multi-step approach. Not only do we need to relieve symptoms and discomfort now, we also need to consider any possible long term damage. The tanins in chilled tea bags will take the sting out of the burn while clean cloths soaked in two cups of cool water and two teaspoons of baking soda may also provide relief. Use Aquaphor to prevent peeling (high content of petroleum jelly) or apply aloe vera gel on damp skin. If you do end up with blisters, avoid popping them. The blister acts as a little skin tent keeping moisture on the skin and germs out. If a blister does pop, but an antibiotic ointment on like Polysporin.

Took the advanced spinning class after months of dormancy?
*Cedric Bryant, Ph.D., chief exercise physiologist for American Council on Exercise says that our body needs time to repair the microscopic tears in our muscles. There are several things you can do to help. First, go for a gentle walk. The activity will promote blood flow and healing to the area. Drinking extra fluids will also increase blood flow to muscles. Go for a massage (tell the therapist to be gentle with your sore spots) or do some light stretching (no bouncing into your stretches which can tear muscles further. Lastly, take an anti-inflammatory, like Alleve, as needed throughout the day.

You drank way too much caffeine?
*Unfortunately, this is another case of simply having to wait it out. The affects of caffeine can last anywhere from four to six hours. What you can do is try countering the nervous and jittery feelings with a walk, deep breathing, meditation or by listening to soothing music.

Rating: 2.50