During the holiday season our digestive system suffers from the stress of the holidays, the long nights, and especially the abundant meals. Here our home GP for indigestion in Costa del Sol advises on how to be good to your gut these days.
How can I prevent indigestion?
Eat smaller portions
A full stomach puts extra pressure on the small valve that keeps stomach acid out of the oesophagus. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid overeating and eat smaller portions even though it is almost mission impossible even for James Bond himself.
Minimize late-night munching
It is also recommended to avoid falling asleep after dinner or to minimize nighttime chewing. Our home GP for indigestion in Costa del Sol explains that the mere fact of lying down or in some horizontal position for the body, can cause the acid to enter the oesophagus causing discomfort and that feeling of acidity
Avoid food triggers
You must choose wisely at the buffet table where you will sit so that you don't run into enemy foods that you know will upset you.
Exercise
Adding a little exercise to your holiday list will help your stomach move. After heavy meals, walk if possible. Similarly, forget the lift and use the stairs. But don't exercise excessively after a meal or at least do it 1 hour from the last intake or on an empty stomach.
Avoid smoking
Another factor that can affect stomach irritation is cigarettes. Don't smoke before you eat or right after.
Drink in moderation
Opt for a non-irritating drink because caffeinated, carbonated and alcoholic drinks all contribute to heartburn.
Lighten up in your cooking
Opt for options such as applesauce or chicken broth instead of butter to bake the turkey or meat, or substitute roasting for baking. This will help reduce the fat in your holiday recipes.
Avoid wearing tight-fitting clothes
Without you even noticing it, tight clothing puts pressure on your stomach. This can cause the food you eat to rise up into your oesophagus.
When to call our home GP for indigestion in Costa del Sol
There is no need to worry about mild indigestion as it does not bring any major risks. Consult our home GP for indigestion in Costa del Sol if discomfort persists for more than two weeks after the holidays. If you suffer severe pain accompanied by the following symptoms, contact our doctor immediately:
- Lack of appetite or involuntary weight loss
- Vomiting blood or constants
- Appreciation of tarry or black or dark-coloured faeces
- Progressive worsening of swallowing or similar problems
- Indicators of anemia, such as weakness or presence of fatigue
It is recommended to seek urgent health care if:
- Chest pain spreading to the arm, neck or jaw, shortness of breath or sweating.
- Acute chest pain due to strain or stress