DIGESTIVE HEALTH

Don’t be a Stuffed Turkey this Thanksgiving!

Most of us are already planning what we will eat for Thanksgiving dinner. We daydream of juicy slices of turkey, herb stuffing, sweet potato soufflé, green bean casserole, homemade rolls, and fresh-baked pies. Somehow we think Thanksgiving Day is a free pass to eat all we want, and we believe that we can stuff ourselves as full as the turkey without any consequences! Fast forward to an hour after the meal. The dinner dishes are piled high and everyone has retreated to the couch to recover from feasting. Overeating can put pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) that separates the stomach from the esophagus. This valve can open and allow gastric juices to leak into the esophagus, causing that familiar burning that we know as heartburn. Some people may only experience heartburn when they eat too much, but others experience heartburn on a regular basis. No matter how often you struggle, knowing your specific triggers can be helpful in keeping heartburn at bay. This Thanksgiving, don’t miss out on those traditional dishes. Pace yourself by putting small amounts of food on your plate. Eat slowly, take time to talk to your family members, and reflect upon what you are thankful for. Reflecting on what I am thankful for, it’s our patients and the community we serve. Our office is proud to provide our patients with high quality, gastrointestinal care. Is it time you schedule an appointment with a Gastroenterologist? I urge you to consider scheduling this holiday season. For your convenience, you may request an appointment on our website www.CDHWilloughby.com.