NORTH DAKOTA (KXNET) — The holidays are usually surrounded by delicious drinks, but they're not all created equally when it comes to supporting the digestive system. There are many yummy options, but understanding their impact on the gut can help you make the right choice so you feel good all throughout the season. Herbal teas — ginger and peppermint — offer comfort while being gentle on the digestive system. Ginger tea can help with nausea and support digestion after a heavy meal while peppermint tea eases bloating and promotes relaxation in the gut. But if you're looking for something fizzy and festive, kombucha is the best option, since the probiotic-rich drink helps with digestion and offers the fizziness of soda without the sugar. Bone broth is another gut-friendly choice since it's packed with nutrients and amino acids. It's warm and savory, making it a comforting drink on chilly days. For something simple, infused water can be great. Slices of oranges, cranberries, or cinnamon sticks can give it a seasonal flair while keeping you hydrated. North Dakotans want to strive for this 2025 resolution However, there are drinks that can cause damage to the gut. Rich and sugary drinks like eggnog — which has alcohol, sugar, and heavy creams— can wreak havoc on the gut lining. Plus, they're harder to digest. Sodas and sparkling ciders can always contain a high amount of sugar and artificial ingredients that can disrupt the microbiome and cause bloating. Non-alcoholic options like hot chocolate can cause issues as well because of the dairy and sugar content. Fortunately, there is good news and you don't have to skip on your favorite drinks entirely. Moderation and thoughtful substitutions are the key. For example, if you love eggnog, try a dairy-free or reduced-sugar version. If you want something fizzy, try sparkling water with a splash of juice or kombucha instead. To also help balance out the effects, you can pair richer drinks with gut-friendly ones, like having a creamy cocktail with a cup of ginger tea. Not only can you do that, but staying hydrated is also important. If a certain drink leaves you feeling uncomfortable, choose something else. For more information on maintaining gut health, you can visit this website. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Today's Top Stories SIGN UP NOW