Do you know that all too familiar feeling of burning in your chest, sour stomach, bloating, belching, or even shortness of breath? If so, you are most likely one of the 60 million Americans who deal with acid reflux.1 If you have acid reflux that is controlled fairly well throughout the year until the holiday season hits, then check out the tips below. There are a few steps you can take so that you can enjoy your holiday events without suffering from acid reflux symptoms.
Avoid trigger foods: Foods that are fatty, spicy, rich, and acidic are major triggers for most people. Fried foods and foods that contain heavy, creamy sauces typically exacerbate acid reflux. Avoid citrus fruits and juices as they are highly acidic and can contribute to unwanted symptoms.
Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and carbonated beverages: Alcohol and caffeine cause the lower esophageal sphincter to relax, resulting in the flow of stomach acid back into the esophagus. For some people, carbonated beverages can lead to gas, burping, and unpleasant acid reflux symptoms.
Drink Water: Drinking water helps with the digestion and smooth passing of food. It helps to balance the PH of an acidic meal. Sip frequently on water throughout the day to keep you hydrated and reduce the symptoms of acid reflux
Portion control: Holiday foods can taste so good that you have a heightened desire to eat more, which makes you miserable later. Eat smaller amounts throughout the day. Don’t try to “save up” calories for the event in the evening. You know that eating a large meal will inevitably lead to discomfort. Instead, eat a few small meals throughout the day.
Avoid eating late: Give yourself 2-3 hours to digest your meal before you lie down. Eat as early as you can at the holiday event, and sip on water throughout the rest of the evening.
Plan ahead: If you have a party to attend in the evening, eat something small before you head out the door. A protein shake is a great option to give you some protein and curb your appetite a bit. This will make it easier for you to eat smaller portions, and make better choices.
Don’t let the fear of dealing with acid reflux get in the way of enjoying your holiday events. Pay attention to the foods that trigger your reflux and do your best to avoid them. Knowing what causes you discomfort can be extremely helpful in preventing acid reflux from flaring up this holiday season. If you have acid reflux that is not controlled, make an appointment with Dr. Rajeev Vohra today! You don’t have to sit back and suffer. There are medications and different treatment options that can provide you with relief.
Dr. Rajeev Vohra is a board-certified Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. He specializes in laparoscopic and bariatric procedures and has successfully performed more than 10,000 surgeries over his 30+ year career. Dr. Vohra has dedicated his career to providing patients in New York with the highest quality and most compassionate care.
