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During this holiday season, the steady onslaught of treats, holiday buffets, and that ever-so-tasty double peppermint mocha latte topped with whipped cream can easily knock down the wall of resistance for even the most health-conscious eater.
While many of us are thinking about calories and possible weight gain, our attention should also be on our digestive health. “The holidays can wreak havoc on the GI tract,” says Dr. Afshin Khaiser, M.D., board-certified Gastroenterologist with Physicians Regional Medical Group. “I see a large increase in indigestion, bloating, abdominal pain, and irregular bowel complaints during this time.”
Digestion affects us more than we may think – including mood, energy, sleep, general wellbeing, and overall health. Studies show that a big shift in digestive health can happen fast, sometimes within days of what we eat.The good news: There are ways to enjoy the holidays while keeping your waistline and digestive health in check.
“The holidays are when more people do their own cooking, so it is a great time for people to challenge themselves to make healthier versions of their favorite foods,” Dr. Khaiser says. “For example, look for recipes using lower fat and sugar content than the traditional version.” He adds having an eating game plan is also important. “If desserts are your thing, then map out a strategy to minimize the front end of the meal.”
Dr. Khaiser recognizes that portion control is a big factor in keeping digestive health in line. He suggests eating smaller, frequent meals that will allow the body to process and digest the food without discomfort. “It’s tempting to eat that large holiday meal, but you always feel it after.”
He adds the following tips:
1) Limit cocktails to 1-2 servings of alcohol.
2) Schedule meals earlier and avoid fried or fatty foods.
3) Add some fruits and veggies to each meal to ensure you’re getting the fiber you need.
4) Chew your food well and eat slowly.
5) Drink plenty of water with each meal.
The holidays can be a challenging time to be mindful of the foods you are fueling your body with but with a few tweaks and simple guidelines, you can be on the road to better digestive health for the entire year.
Dr. Khaiser specializes in colon cancer screening and prevention, pancreatic and gallbladder disease, liver disease, cirrhosis, hepatitis, acid reflux/GERD, celiac/gluten intolerance, Crohn’s disease as well as Ulcerative colitis.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call (239) 348-4236, or schedule online at PhysiciansRegionalMedicalGroup.com.
Dr. Khaiser has office locations near both Physicians Regional Collier and Physicians Regional Pine Ridge.
8340 Collier Blvd, Ste 405, Naples, FL 34114
6376 Pine Ridge Rd, Ste 300, Naples, FL 34119
