A nutritionist is urging people to make themselves a certain type of drink today as one in six people are expected to suffer with bowel problems. Today marks Valentine’s Day, February 14, and while many people will be celebrating with their partner and friends, others will likely be rushing to the bathroom.
The advice comes as a survey of 2,000 respondents by the dating app Flirtini revealed that around one in six adults have experienced digestive issues on Valentine’s Day, likely due to intense nerves. One in 10 even end up in hospital.
The survey also shows that Valentine’s Day often encourages indulgence in lavish, heavy meals. But as a result, one in three respondents admitted to overeating so much during a date that they had to loosen their trousers or race to the toilet.
One respondent, who wishes to remain anonymous, told Flirtini: “One time, me and this girl went to the movies on Valentine’s Day.” They added: “Then she got really sick and threw up everywhere, including on her gift.”
To avoid putting yourself at risk of bowel problems today, nutritionist and research biologist of Luvly Anastasiya Kaliga has shared five ways to prevent gut issues for a stress-free Valentine’s Day. Both indigestion and overeating on Valentine’s Day are often driven by high levels of stress and anxiety, and as a consequence, they can disrupt digestion and trigger overeating as a coping mechanism.
Start with a warm drink
Anastasiya’s first tip is to make sure having a hot drink is top of your agenda. She said: “My suggestion is to drink warm water or herbal tea before your meal.”
She added: “Why do this? It helps to relax your digestive tract and prepare your stomach for food. Warm liquids stimulate digestion, helping to prevent bloating or discomfort later. You now have a moment to check in with your hunger levels and understand to what extent you are hungry or if hungry at all.”
Take a short walk after dinner
Anastasiya explained: “This might seem counterintuitive but don’t sit or lie down immediately after eating — go for a short walk, especially if you had a hearty meal. Movement stimulates digestion and reduces bloating and discomfort.
“It also regulates blood sugar levels, preventing an energy crash. Besides, walking together after dinner is a great way to extend your romantic date as it gives you extra time to connect with your partner while supporting your body’s natural digestive process.”
Balance indulgence with protein and fibre
Valentine’s Day meals often include rich foods and desserts, which can cause blood sugar spikes and lead to sluggishness or discomfort. Anastasiya said: “Now, we don’t need to restrict ourselves; just balance indulgent dishes with protein like chicken, fish, or tofu and fibre like vegetables or whole grains. It’ll be enough. Protein and fibre help slow down digestion, keep you satisfied for longer and prevent that uncomfy post-meal crash.”
Slow down and savour your food
It takes about 20 minutes for your brain to register fullness, but when you eat quickly, you can easily consume more than your body actually needs before realising you’re full, Anastasiya says. She explained: “If you want to avoid this, consciously slow down your eating pace.
“I know it’s hard to resist swallowing huge pieces of juicy meat when you are hungry, but really try to put your fork down between bites and chew thoroughly. You’ll thank me later.”
Lower stress before your date
“As I said earlier, stress directly impacts digestion: it makes your stomach more sensitive and slows down food processing. Not to mention, it can lead to overeating as a way to self-soothe,” she said.
“But do not worry; you can easily fix this. Before your Valentine’s Day meal, take at least 10 minutes for deep breathing exercises or stretching. That way you’ll regulate your nervous system, so you go into the meal feeling relaxed rather than eating as a reaction to stress or nerves.”