5 Ways to Avoid Holiday Heartburn and Indigestion

Hi, I'm Dr. Kevin Soden. If your seasonal soundtrack is more of jingle burps than jingle bells, you're not alone. A recent survey found that from Thanksgiving till New Year's Day, heartburn makes two out of three people less than jolly. Here's how to avoid heartburn and indigestion this holiday season.

Manage stress. I know that's a tough one this time of the year, but stress boosts stomach acid levels, which can lead to nasty heartburn. Make time to relax and don't feel like you have to do everything. Get moving. Too much time sitting on planes, in the car and at the dinner table is a recipe for constipation and heartburn.

Even a few minutes of walking here and there helps heartburn risk, it helps with constipation too. Don't overdo the eggnog and a cheese cake, there's mounting evidence that an overload of dairy causes bloating, gas and diarrhea. Watch out for sweets too, all sweet, or even sugar substitute can make you gassy and crampy.

Avoid the sinosize portions and go for small portion. Over-eating sets the stage for an upset stomach. So go ahead and enjoy your holiday favorites in moderation. For more ways to nourish your health, watch all our smart tips right here.