The holidays are a time to indulge in favorite foods. But irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can make it difficult to enjoy the dishes that make this season special.
Fortunately, a little bit of planning can help.
At Integrative Medica in Salt Lake City, Utah, Dr. Jake Schmutz and his team offer comprehensive IBS diagnostic and treatment services. As we approach the holidays, we’re here to help if you’re ready to explore your options.
Irritable bowel syndrome is a chronic gastrointestinal condition with painful and disruptive symptoms. It requires ongoing medical management.
Researchers are unsure of the exact cause of IBS, but several factors may be to blame. Serious infections, extreme stress during childhood and early adulthood, and issues with the nerves and muscles that control your digestion are all linked to IBS.
Common symptoms of IBS include:
Some people notice an uptick in symptoms when they consume certain foods. For others, stress seems to trigger IBS symptoms.
If certain foods or food categories trigger your IBS symptoms, the holidays can be difficult to navigate. Every party or event may seem centered on food, and it isn’t always easy to identify the ingredients in a dish.
Many people find that they struggle to control their IBS when they deviate from their usual nutrition program. Eating at restaurants or attending parties means taking a chance on how your body responds to new or unfamiliar foods.
If stress triggers your IBS symptoms, the holidays can also be difficult. There’s a lot to love about spending time with friends and family, but these interactions can be stressful.
Worries about guests feeling comfortable, concerns about the expense of the season, and even anticipation of upcoming events can all cause stress and a spike in IBS symptoms.
With a bit of planning, you can reduce IBS symptoms this holiday season. Consider taking the following steps:
It’s normal to worry about how IBS can flare up and get in the way of your holiday celebrations. But make an effort to identify these negative thoughts and turn them into more helpful ones.
For example, if you’re concerned that a party host might be offended if you decline their famous fudge, try to show your gratitude at being included while communicating that certain foods cause problems with your digestion.
Who among us hasn’t made terrible nutrition choices when hungry? The best way to avoid making poor choices based on hunger is to fuel your body before you leave home.
A light meal or heavy snack before you head out can give your body the nutrients to thrive. It can also stop you from loading a plate with foods likely to trigger digestive issues later.
Everyone with IBS understands that urgently needing a restroom is part of the experience. To avoid that, map out the restroom locations as soon as you arrive in an unfamiliar place. That also helps you avoid worrying about what might happen if you suddenly have to go.
One of the best ways to avoid IBS flare-ups is by managing stress. Get a head start by making a list of the holiday tasks that you consider most onerous and finding ways to make them easier.
If you dread battling the crowds to find the perfect holiday gift, consider shifting to online shopping this year. If cooking a big meal doesn’t bring you joy, look into restaurants that cater and can handle the heavy lifting with the turkey and side dishes.
If you’re struggling with IBS symptoms this holiday season, keep in mind that the team at Integrative Medica is always happy to help. Call us or book an appointment online today.
