A number of years ago, what product was advertised by means of the slogan, "I can't believe I ate the whole thing" ?

The memorable phrase, "I can't believe I ate the whole thing," became a widely recognized advertising slogan for Alka-Seltzer. This iconic line perfectly captured the feeling of overindulgence and the subsequent discomfort that often follows a large meal. The commercials featuring this slogan resonated with audiences because they presented relatable scenarios of people suffering from upset stomachs and indigestion after eating too much.

The popular advertisement first aired in 1972 and depicted a man, often referred to as Ralph, lamenting his excessive eating to his sleepy wife. The line itself was reportedly inspired by copywriter Howie Cohen's own experience of overeating at a dinner party. The genius of the campaign, developed by the Wells, Rich, Greene agency, lay in its humor and its direct appeal to a common human experience, making Alka-Seltzer synonymous with relief from the woes of overindulgence.

Alka-Seltzer, an effervescent antacid and pain reliever, was first introduced in 1931. Its effervescent tablets release active ingredients when dissolved in water, providing fast relief for heartburn, indigestion, and upset stomachs. The "I can't believe I ate the whole thing" campaign, alongside other famous slogans like "Plop, plop, fizz, fizz, oh what a relief it is," helped solidify Alka-Seltzer's place in popular culture and as a go-to remedy for digestive discomfort. The enduring legacy of these advertisements is a testament to their timeless appeal and effectiveness in connecting with consumers.