During the holidays, family gatherings and festive meals often come with the downside of heartburn, a condition many people struggle with. Dr. Mark Shachner, medical director of the Broward Health Coral Springs Heartburn Center in South Florida, has identified common practices that can contribute to reflux during the holiday season. These include overeating, consuming richer and more indulgent foods, as well as drinking more alcohol and sweets, all of which are more common during the holiday season.
The doctor noted that heartburn frequently flares up during the holidays. “Heartburn tends to flare up during the holidays because we often eat larger portions, enjoy richer foods, and indulge in more sweets and alcohol than usual,” he explained to Fox News Digital. Combining these rich holiday foods and drinks with overeating, late-night meals, and lying down too soon after eating can create a “recipe for reflux,” according to Shachner.
As a solution, Shachner outlined several recommendations to help prevent heartburn. One of his suggestions is eating smaller portions and chewing more slowly to aid digestion. He also advises resisting the urge to go back for seconds until the body has had time to digest the food. Staying upright for at least two to three hours after eating is another key tip, as it helps the stomach to empty more efficiently and prevents the acid from rising into the esophagus.
Shachner cautioned against the habit of lying down shortly after eating, which can worsen heartburn. He encouraged light activities, like walking, after a big meal, as they can support digestion and reduce the risk of reflux. “A gentle walk after meals helps digestion and reduces reflux,” he stated.
Furthermore, Shachner provided a list of foods and drinks that are more likely to trigger heartburn. These include fatty or fried dishes, tomato sauces, citrus fruits, chocolate, peppermint, alcohol, coffee, and carbonated beverages. He emphasized that each individual may have different food triggers, making it essential to pay attention to which foods cause discomfort and adjust accordingly.
While occasional heartburn is usually not a major concern, persistent symptoms occurring more than twice a week or if over-the-counter remedies are ineffective should prompt a visit to a healthcare professional, according to Shachner. He explained that chronic heartburn might be a sign of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which, if left untreated, can cause long-term damage. In such cases, it is crucial to consult a doctor for a full evaluation.
For individuals dealing with chronic heartburn, Shachner mentioned minimally invasive treatments like the LINX® procedure, which uses a ring of magnetic beads to reinforce the lower esophageal sphincter. Another option is transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF), which restores the natural barrier between the stomach and esophagus through the mouth, without requiring external incisions. These alternatives offer lasting relief without the need for traditional surgery.
In conclusion, Shachner’s advice emphasizes the importance of moderation, timing, and lifestyle adjustments to prevent heartburn. By making mindful choices about what to eat and when, individuals can enjoy the holidays without the discomfort of reflux. His insights aim to help people manage heartburn effectively, whether during the festive season or year-round, and to seek professional advice if symptoms persist or worsen.