The holiday season is here, which means lots of delicious food, drinks, and festivities. This is often challenging for people, especially those with digestive issues. Multiple gastroenterological issues including acid reflux, celiac disease, chronic pancreatitis, irritable bowel syndrome, lactose intolerance, amongst others can be triggered by the abundance of holiday food and drink.
Jaime Baquero, MD, a gastroenterologist at AMA Health Providers, advises everyone to be mindful of their eating habits during this time. He suggests eating small meals that are low in fat and high in fiber, avoiding excess alcohol and listening to your body. It's easy to lose control at large gatherings, so paying attention to what you eat and pacing yourself can help you stay comfortable throughout the season.
It's important for everyone to pay attention to their body's reactions to food, not just those with digestive disorders. Symptoms like feeling full quickly, persistent diarrhea, or unexplained weight loss could be signs of a more serious condition. If you experience these changes, it's advisable to speak with your primary care provider, who may refer you to a gastroenterologist. Additionally, family history plays a significant role in certain conditions like celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and colon cancer, so it's worth discussing with your loved ones.
If you are experiencing digestive health issues, speak with your primary care provider or give Dr. Baquero a call at 941.559.0262 or to learn more, go to AMAHealthProviders.com.