Saturday, December 27, 2008

Ate Everything! Got Gas?

One of the most common holiday problems is eating too much; even for those with a castiron stomach, gas can be a problem. For some, it's an everyday event that's uncomfortable and worrisome.

The easiest and safest remedy is simethicone. (Try not to use that proverbial pinch of baking soda unless it's a dire emergency.) Many over-the-counter medicines include simethicone as an ingredient, while in others this old standby is the only active ingredient.

Perhaps the most recognized name is Gas-X, but you can purchase Equate at Wal-Mart or other generics at Big Lots and the Dollar Tree for only pennies. As long as it's simethicone, it works. If you purchase the chewable variety, be sure to actually chew, as this releases the simethicone into your system more rapidly. Simethicone is one of the safest drugs around and can be used during pregnancy and nursing.

Now that your stomach feels like normal again, you're ready for New Year's Eve. A happy 2009 to everyone!

Nurse Nan

No comments: