How to Keep Heartburn Off the Menu This Thanksgiving

From rich side dishes to an extra glass of wine, holiday indulgence can often bring an unwelcome guest to the table: heartburn. 

 

“Heartburn becomes more prevalent during the holiday season, most likely due to the increasing intake of rich, fatty, or spicy foods,” says Natalie Wilkin, Aspirus Pharmacy Resident. “There’s also increased alcohol or caffeine intake, which are common triggers, and for many, the holidays can be a stressful time, which can make symptoms worse.” 

 

To help prevent heartburn from interrupting your celebrations, Wilkin recommends paying attention to what and how much you eat and avoiding known triggers when possible. 

 

• Know your triggers. “If you notice certain foods or habits that always lead to heartburn, try to limit those during the holiday season,” says Wilkin. 
• Be mindful of portions. Large meals, especially those high in fat or spice, are common triggers. 
• Manage stress. The holidays can be hectic, and stress can contribute to heartburn symptoms. 

 

If heartburn does occur, Wilkin says a few over-the-counter medications can help: 

• Antacids (like Tums): Work quickly and are best taken at the first sign of symptoms. 
• Histamine antagonists (like Pepcid): Work best when taken about 30 minutes before a meal you expect may trigger heartburn. 

 

She cautions that these medications can interact with certain prescriptions or health conditions. 

 

“If you’re using over-the-counter heartburn medications more often, or have questions about drug interactions, call your pharmacist or provider to confirm what’s safe for you,” Wilkin advises. 

 

If heartburn occurs more than twice a week, it may signal a more serious condition such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Persistent symptoms should be evaluated by a health care provider. 

 

“If it happens chronically, talk to your doctor,” Wilkin says. “And it’s not a bad idea to keep some over-the-counter medication on hand for guests, too.” 

 

With a little preparation and mindfulness, you can enjoy your Thanksgiving favorites without the burn. If you have questions about managing heartburn or choosing the right over-the-counter medication, talk with your Aspirus pharmacist or health care provider.

 

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