Sleigh Your Stomach Troubles: Holiday Remedies for Indigestion Relief

The holiday season comes with the promise of festive feasts, delicious treats and cozy gatherings. But, while indulging in holiday goodies is one of the joys of the season, it can also lead to a common problem — indigestion.

If you’ve ever experienced that uncomfortable bloated feeling, heartburn, or a full stomach after overindulging in holiday meals, you know just how unpleasant it can be.

The good news is that there are many effective remedies for indigestion relief that can help you feel better going into 2025.

Over-the-Counter Medications for Indigestion Relief

Indigestion, also known as dyspepsia, is a common issue that causes discomfort or pain in your upper abdomen. It’s often triggered by overeating, eating spicy or fatty foods, or drinking too much alcohol—things that tend to happen frequently during the holidays. Symptoms can include bloating, belching, nausea, and a feeling of fullness after eating.

For quick relief, over-the-counter medications can be an effective way to treat indigestion.

Antacids: Products like Tums, Rolaids, and Maalox neutralize stomach acid, offering fast relief from heartburn and acid reflux.

H2 Blockers: These medications, such as ranitidine (Zantac), reduce the amount of acid your stomach produces, helping to prevent indigestion.

Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): For more persistent indigestion, PPIs like omeprazole (Prilosec) can help by blocking acid production at its source.

If you’re unsure which medication is best for you, our team at Rutland Medical Pharmacy can guide you to the right choice based on your symptoms.

Eat Smaller, More Frequent Meals

One of the easiest remedies for indigestion relief is to avoid overeating. During the holidays, it’s tempting to fill your plate with rich foods, but eating smaller, more frequent meals can prevent your stomach from becoming overloaded. Try to pace yourself, eat slowly, and avoid eating large portions all at once. This will give your stomach time to digest and help reduce the chances of indigestion.

Stay Hydrated and Avoid Trigger Foods

Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help with digestion and prevent constipation, which is another common cause of indigestion. Avoid drinking too many carbonated beverages or alcohol, as these can exacerbate stomach discomfort. Opt for water and herbal to keep your digestive system functioning smoothly.

Avoiding trigger foods can also help you avoid indigestion. Some common culprits include spicy foods, high-fat foods, or drinks with caffeine in them, such as tea, coffee, colas, or energy drinks. Habits like smoking and chewing tobacco can also contribute to indigestion.

Digestive Enzymes

For those who frequently suffer from indigestion, digestive enzyme supplements can be helpful. These enzymes break down proteins, fats, and carbohydrates in food, making it easier for your stomach to digest. Talk to a healthcare professional about whether digestive enzymes might be a good option for you during the holiday season.

Manage Stress

Believe it or not, stress can contribute to indigestion. The hustle and bustle of the holidays can sometimes leave us feeling frazzled, and this can manifest as stomach discomfort. Finding ways to relax and de-stress, such as practicing deep breathing exercises or taking a short walk, can help prevent indigestion from becoming a bigger issue.

Indigestion doesn’t have to ruin your holiday fun. With the right remedies for indigestion relief, you can keep your digestive system in check and continue enjoying the seasonal celebrations.

If you need help finding the right product for your symptoms or have any questions about indigestion relief, our team at Rutland Medical Pharmacy is here to help.

Stop by or give us a call, and we’ll be happy to assist you in making your holiday season as enjoyable as possible.

Happy Holidays from Rutland Medical Pharmacy—Here’s to a season full of joy and comfort, without the tummy troubles!