Khichdi, Soup And More: 7 Easy To Digest Foods For Post-Festive Meals

The festive season brings joy, celebrations, and an abundance of delicious, often rich, foods. After indulging in festive feasts, our digestive systems might need a break. That yummy kheer or rich kebab platter might have been delicious, but the truth is that you cannot have it forever. Your digestive system needs a break, especially after heavy meals. That's when easy-to-digest foods come to the rescue. These gentle options soothe the stomach and provide essential nutrients without overwhelming it. Here are 7 foods that are easy to digest after your post-festive meals.

Khichdi:

This simple and comforting one-pot dish combines rice and lentils, making it easy to digest and rich in protein as well. It's seasoned with mild spices, such as cumin and turmeric, which aid digestion. The soft, mushy texture of khichdi is easy on the stomach and provides a feeling of satisfaction. You can enhance its nutritional value by adding vegetables or topping it with ghee for a touch of richness.

Clear Soups:

Clear soups, such as chicken broth or vegetable, are ideal for restoring your digestive balance. These broths are hydrating and light, making them easy to digest. The warm liquid helps soothe the digestive tract and can be particularly comforting if you've overindulged during the festivities. Clear soups are often seasoned with gentle spices like a little pepper, providing flavour without adding to the digestive workload. They're also a good source of electrolytes, aiding in hydration and recovery.

Yoghurt:

With probiotics and live cultures, yoghurt is a gut-friendly food that promotes a healthy balance of bacteria in the digestive system. It aids digestion and provides essential nutrients. Opt for plain, unsweetened yoghurt to keep it gentle on your stomach. You can add a drizzle of honey or a handful of fresh berries for sweetness and extra nutrition. Yoghurt can be consumed as is or used in smoothies and parfaits for variety. You can also make curd rice.

Oatmeal: 

Recipe - Cooking Light

Oatmeal is a soothing breakfast option for post-festive recovery. It's easy to prepare and offers a good balance of fibre and nutrients. The soluble fibre in oats helps gentle digestion and promotes regularity. You can top your oatmeal with sliced bananas, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or a dash of honey as per your preference. Avoid overly sweet or sugary toppings to maintain the digestive benefits of this hearty breakfast choice.

Steamed Vegetables:

Steamed vegetables are a gentle and nutritious addition to your post-festive meals. Steam cooking retains the vegetables' natural flavours and nutrients while making them softer and easier to digest. Options like carrots, peas and green beans are excellent choices. Season them lightly with a pinch of salt and a drizzle of olive oil for a simple and satisfying dinner. Steamed vegetables are rich in vitamins and minerals that can help replenish the nutrients your body may have lost during the festivities.

Boiled Rice:

Boiled rice is another comforting and easily digestible food that can serve as a base for a variety of dishes. White rice, in particular, is less taxing on the digestive system compared to whole grains. You can pair it with a mild, easily digestible protein source like grilled chicken or tofu. A simple and mild curry or dal can add flavour without overcomplicating digestion. This meal offers carbohydrates for energy and proteins for recovery.

Bananas

A quick natural way to boost your metabolism and get your digestive system on track is to eat bananas. The carbs in this fruit can break down easily and it is very gentle on the stomach. It also energises you and if you are suffering from vomiting or nausea, you can count on bananas to be a helpful home remedy. You can have it as it is or combine it with a little yoghurt.