The holidays are a time of joy, love, family and friendship; though many of us may not like to admit it, the holidays are also a time of stress. Add to it, loads of sweet treats and heavy holiday meals, and you’ve got a recipe for digestive disaster. Digestive Health Care of Western Kentucky is here to help you find out what measures you can take to manage the stress and heighten the joy!
Between the traveling and socializing, and the emotional aspects of meeting with family, holiday time can be very taxing. The abundance of sugar, carbohydrates and alcohol, paired with shorter winter days can further heighten emotional reactions and stress.
1. Slow Down-Most of us make our holiday plans first and then figure out how we're going to fit it all in. This sort of over-commitment and attempt to please everyone is sure to lead to stress and hurt feelings. Try not to over-commit.
2. Naptime is Not Just For Children-How many of us feel guilty when we are not constantly in motion? Most parents know that overtired and hurried children are headed for a breakdown. Unfortunately, most grown-ups are unaware of the impact of stress on their lives and digestion. Rest and relaxation are crucial for renewal, balance and a healthy body.
3. Pass the fiber, please-Increase your intake of fiber, bran and water between overdoses of turkey, dressing and pumpkin pie. The proper diet between holiday feasts will help to “keep things moving” normally and decrease discomfort.
4. Get Moving-Despite the hectic holiday schedule, don’t skip the exercise. Try to get up and move at least 30 minutes each day.
5. What’s up Doc-Don’t be shy. If holiday stress and over-eating are taking a toll on your digestive tract, talk to your doctor. If your symptoms are persistent or chronic, you may need more than over-the-counter medications.
D Dr. Jeffrey Riggs is a board-certified Gastroenterologist, which means he has additional training in performing endoscopy, colonoscopy and upper scopes. According to Dr. Riggs, in order to receive privileges to perform these procedures for patients, he had to first successfully perform hundreds of them. That means he has tremendous experience, and he is the most qualified in the area to take care of your digestive health.
Ask Dr. Riggs or Physician’s Assistant, Fred Foltz, about the “PillCam.” This amazing technology allows the Digestive Healthcare team to see the entire small intestine in an effort to diagnose small bowel disorders. The patient simply swallows the tiny, pill-sized camera, making it possible to visualize an area once accessible only through traditional endoscopy.
Contact Dr. Riggs and the staff at Digestive Health Care of Western Kentucky on S. Virginia Street in Hopkinsville to make your appointment for a consultation at (270) 885-7300 .
