Gas Relief for Post-Thanksgiving Day Meals: From Pepto Bismol to GasX

Eating, eating and more eating, isn't that what Thanksgiving is all about? Unfortunately, all that eating also means indigestion, heartburn and gas. Ewww, I know, nasty subject, but we have to cover it sometime! Guests tend to be appreciative of those who have the necessary medicines on hand. But don't think you can get away with a bottle of Pepto Bismol to take care of all problems. For one thing Diabetics cannot take Pepto because it is full of sugar! What about aspirin or ibuprofen? These can't be taken by those with high blood pressure or certain prescription medications.

So, what should a good host keep on hand for those who overindulge? A small bottle of pepto bismol is a good start. While some cannot take this it is a wonderful cure all for many of the problems of overeating. I prefer to keep the chewable forms on hand. If it was only me that would be using this bottle I would not hesitate to use the liquid form; but I don't really believe that everyone is cleaning that little cup very well after they use it. Using the chewable form each guest gets their own dose and you don't have to worry about what the person before you left behind.

Gas X is a wonderful chewable tablet for those gassy guests. My cousin comes out of the bathroom after eating and everyone knows not to go in for at least 30 minutes while it airs out. If you want to avoid this problem from the start offer Beano to your guests, it really does work.

For the opposite problem, diarrhea, keep Immodium handy. The packaging says that ½ a chewable tablet is okay for children 6 and over, so you don't neglect your youngest guests.

For those aches and pains from sitting for so long then having to stand up and try to walk to the couch from the dinner table keep Ibuprofen and Tylenol handy. Tylenol is safe for those who can't take Ibuprofen and vise versa.

So now you ask, how do I let my guests know they can have these medications without seeming like I'm hinting they may need them? Simple, you leave them in your bathroom cupboard with a post-it message on the mirror, "if you need something, help yourself". Make sure to remove any items you don't want your guests taking, like that prescription Percocet, but your guests will appreciate the gesture and you will appreciate not having to deal with the after effects of your wonderful meal.