Don’t Let Digestion Troubles Hamper the Holidays

A healthy digestive system is essential to feeling well, particularly during the holidays when comfort foods abound. Heartburn and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or acid reflux, affect approximately 20% of adults in the U.S.

What is GERD?
GERD occurs when stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus, leading to irritation and uncomfortable symptoms like:

•  Persistent heartburn
• Regurgitation
• Difficulty swallowing
• Consistent cough
• Nausea
• A sour taste in the mouth

How do you know if you need treatment for GERD?
While most people with GERD have mild symptoms, if left untreated, constant reflux and irritation of the esophagus can lead to complications such as tissue damage, difficulty swallowing, or even cancer.

“Many people don’t realize that untreated GERD isn’t just uncomfortable—it can lead to serious health risks,” said Dr. Ian Kendrick a general surgeon at Evanston Regional Hospital “The good news is that for people with persistent GERD symptoms, there are ways to manage and even resolve GERD effectively.”

Tips to Manage GERD During the Holidays

To help you avoid digestive discomfort this holiday season, here are five tips to manage GERD:

1. Eat slower, smaller meals: Instead of the traditional three meals, focus on smaller meals throughout the day. Take your time while eating, chewing your food thoroughly to help your digestive system.
2. Go for a walk after your last meal: Heartburn often results from eating a large meal and going straight to bed. Try to avoid eating at least two hours before you lay down.
3. Avoid triggers like:
   a. Alcohol, caffeine, and carbonated beverages
   b. Mint in any variety, including gum or desserts
   c. Acidic foods, such as tomato-based meals, vinegar, and citrus
   d. Spicy food and seasonings like hot sauce and pepper
   e. Fried foods, processed meats, and heavy cream sauces
   f. Sugary foods and beverages like soft drinks, cakes, and cookies
4. Maintain a healthy weight: Overweight individuals are more likely to suffer from GERD. Focus on eating whole foods and following your doctor’s exercise recommendations.
5. Quit Smoking: Nicotine can increase inflammation, acid exposure, and coughing while weakening the lower esophageal sphincter.

To further evaluate possible digestive issues, you may need to see a general surgeon, specializing in treatments like upper GI endoscopy. Call 307-789-9355 to schedule a consultation with our board-certified general surgeon Ian Kendrick, MD, FACS. You can also make an appointment at www.EvanstonAnytime.com

Dr. Ian Kendrick is the Chief Medical Officer at Evanston Regional Hospital.

Source: Yale Medicine, https://gi.org/topics/acid-reflux/