About 20% of people in the United States have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Before you blame the stuffing, turkey, gravy, or cranberries, here’s how to keep heartburn and indigestion from crashing festive parties, so you can enjoy holiday meals without paying for it later.
If you struggle with heartburn, indigestion, or other gastrointestinal concerns, book an appointment today with Leslie F. Seecoomar, MD, in Manhattan’s Upper West Side in New York City, to ease symptoms with a personalized plan created by Dr. Seecoomar.
The following symptoms may indicate heartburn and/or indigestion:
These or similar symptoms range in severity from mild to severe and can ruin your holiday festivities if left untreated. Fortunately, numerous preventive measures can help you avoid the discomfort of heartburn and indigestion.
Consider the following hacks to navigate holiday dinners without the discomfort:
Some foods are more likely than others to cause heartburn and/or indigestion. Potential trigger foods include:
You might be able to tolerate smaller amounts of these or similar trigger foods, as reactions to such foods vary from person to person.
Rather than waiting all day to splurge on a large holiday meal, have smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day to avoid overindulging. Eating large meals is a risk factor for heartburn and indigestion. Consume food slowly and practice mindful eating to prevent overeating.
If you have a condition that’s linked to heartburn, indigestion, or both, see Dr. Seecoomar for an evaluation and treatment when necessary to avoid bothersome symptoms. Examples of possible causes of unpleasant GI symptoms include:
Pregnancy may also increase the risk of heartburn and indigestion, but adopting healthy lifestyle habits can minimize unpleasant symptoms.
If your medications are linked to heartburn or indigestion, ask Dr. Seecoomar if altering your regimen would be beneficial.
Lifestyle habits that lessen the chance of heartburn and indigestion include:
It’s also helpful to stay active and consume mainly whole foods that haven’t been processed during manufacturing.
Despite your best efforts, heartburn and indigestion may still happen from time to time. If you want to avoid feeling lousy during holiday get-togethers, keep symptom-reducing medications on hand to prevent or eliminate bothersome symptoms. Dr. Seecoomar determines which over-the-counter or prescription medications are best suited for your needs.
Keep heartburn and indigestion at bay by scheduling a gastrointestinal evaluation with Leslie F. Seecoomar, MD, PC, at 212-217-9961 or booking an appointment online.
