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Handling digestion during the holidays

Posted at 12:13 PM, Nov 07, 2016
and last updated 2016-11-07 12:12:31-05

When it comes to the holidays, it's hard to take control when there's an endless amount of delicious foods on the table.

The one thing that people don't look forward to is digestive troubles when they inevitably eat too much.

Dr. Randall Meisner, gastroenterologist with Spectrum Health Medical Group, came to talk about how you can avoid the seasonal struggle with your digestive system.

Thanksgiving is quickly approaching, so in preparation for the big holiday feast, don't skip any meals throughout the day because this could cause you to overeat.

Make sure to include lots of fiber in your diet like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

Don't stack up that plate with potatoes and pie, make healthy choices like eating probiotic-rich foods or taking a probiotic supplement. These probiotics are beneficial bacteria that colonize within your gut, and their presence can help to balance out the microbes that live there, making you feel good.

Overeating is the most common cause of bloating, and gas can easily get trapped in your stomach from fatty foods, carbonated beverages, sweeteners, and dairy.

To avoid this, just eat slowly, listen to your body, and stop once you are satisfied, not stuffed. By listening to your body, you can rise above the temptation to overeat and feel great over the holidays.

If you or someone else suffers from minor stomach pain from eating too much, here's some at home remedies you can try:

  • Internal cleansing fiber
  • Cleansing tea
  • Anti-parasite support
  • Probiotics formula
  • Exercise, such as a walk around the neighborhood after eating
  • Stay hydrated

If symptoms get more serious and the over the counter remedies don't work, see a physician as soon as possible.

Spectrum Health provides MedNow, which is available 24/7 for primary care needs. To get an appointment with a physician through MedNow, call 844-322-7374.