As the holidays approach, many people worry about the side effects of indulgent feasts and family gatherings, particularly the discomfort of heartburn. Dr. Mark Shachner, a specialist in gastrointestinal health at the Broward Health Coral Springs Heartburn Center in South Florida, has shared essential advice to help individuals navigate the festive season without the unwanted symptom of acid reflux. His insights shed light on how specific holiday behaviors can exacerbate heartburn and offer practical steps to mitigate this issue.
Dr. Shachner explains that the surge in heartburn during the holidays is largely due to factors such as larger meals, consumption of richer and more sugary foods, and increased alcohol intake. Other contributors include overeating, having late-night meals, and reclining soon after eating, which he describes as a combination that can result in reflux. To prevent these issues, he recommends several lifestyle and dietary adjustments such as eating smaller portions, chewing slower, and allowing sufficient time for digestion before sitting down again.
A crucial piece of advice he emphasizes is staying upright after eating for two to three hours, which helps the stomach process food efficiently and keeps acid from rising. He also suggests that taking a light walk after a meal can significantly aid in digestion and reduce the risk of reflux. Additionally, the doctor warns against relying solely on over-the-counter remedies and advises consulting a healthcare professional to address the root cause of chronic heartburn. For those suffering from persistent symptoms, minimally invasive treatments like the LINX® procedure or transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF) offer effective, long-term solutions without the need for traditional surgery.
During the holidays, when family and friends gather to share meals and create memories, the risk of heartburn increases due to the nature of the festivities. The doctor highlights how these moments can also be an opportunity to make healthier choices that ensure continued well-being. For instance, maintaining a balanced diet and being mindful of triggers such as fatty or fried foods can make a significant difference not just during the holidays but throughout the year.
Moreover, Dr. Shachner stresses the importance of personalization in managing heartburn, as everyone’s triggers can vary. Encouraging individuals to pay attention to their own dietary patterns and how they affect their health can lead to more effective long-term strategies. When heartburn becomes a recurring issue, it may signal a more serious condition such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which requires professional attention and could lead to long-term health complications if left untreated.
The article serves as a reminder that while occasional heartburn is common and generally harmless, frequent episodes can be a sign of an underlying condition. Therefore, it’s crucial for anyone experiencing persistent discomfort to seek medical advice and possibly undergo a full evaluation. The availability of modern, minimally invasive treatments provides hope for those seeking effective, non-surgical solutions to manage and ultimately alleviate the symptoms of chronic reflux.