Tips to keep holiday parties pain-free

RSVP yes to holiday parties, but don’t dance with digestive pain afterwards. You’ve made it through Halloween. Thanksgiving is in the rearview mirror. But there’s one month of treats left – and it’s a biggie. December is full of many wonderful (and decadent) traditions. This year, give your stomach the greatest gift: A season free of pain. Keep these things in mind when celebrating and attending gatherings with family and friends, so the only thing your stomach is full of is comfort and joy. 

Find (or bring) foods with fiber: So many of the goodies popular this time of year simply lack fiber. Be mindful when filling your plate and choose fruits and vegetables to help compensate for what other treats are lacking. Not only are you making healthier, lower calorie selections, but not getting the proper amounts of fiber can cause pain and constipation. A deficit of fiber is even more painful for those with digestive disorders, such as diverticulitis. If you suffer from diverticulitis, think grains, fruits, and vegetables to make sure your mood remains merry.

Watch portion sizes: We’re not trying to be Scrooge-like, but managing portion sizes – while not always easy – is a great way to avoid pain, reflux, bloating, and other digestive issues. Sometimes it’s a good idea to eat a healthy meal before attending a holiday get-together so you’ll already be full and will be less tempted to go overboard on goodies.

Avoid rich foods: Holiday foods are often heavy on sugar and high on fat. Especially when combined, an excess of foods rich in fat and sugar creates greater stress on your gastrointestinal system triggering stomach aches, reflux, and more. Alcohol, while not a food, also contains sugar and is another trigger that causes reflux. While it may be hard to avoid these holiday favorites completely, enjoy rich foods cautiously, and in moderation. 

Greasy foods are on the naughty list: Foods that are full of grease can really wreak havoc on your system and may cause diarrhea and gas. Choose better, healthier options such as leaner meats that are grilled or baked, and raw or steamed vegetables instead of the deep-fried alternatives. 

Talk more, eat less: It really is the most wonderful time of the year to reconnect with friends and family. So enjoy the fun and the food, but focus more on people and less on your plate. Striking up more conversations with those around you will automatically prompt you to eat slower and give your stomach time to do its thing. Even better, you’ll have time to really catch up with those you love.

If you’re experiencing digestive discomfort, give yourself the greatest gift and let the expert team at GI Associates get you on the path to a better quality of life. For more information about a consultation, call 877-442-7762 or fill out our online appointment form today.