With the holiday season upon us, many people are looking forward to time well spent with family and friends.

And the roasted turkey, candied yams, mashed potatoes and pumpkin pie that will tempt the palate during many of these gatherings, while tempting, may actually be the recipe for gastrointestinal distress.

Sometimes, the huge meals and numerous choices offered at holiday dinners leave us feeling sluggish, ill and unable to enjoy ourselves.

This can easily be avoided if you think twice or at least slow down before filling your plates — and mouths — with seconds and thirds.

Indigestion, a general term used to describe discomfort or burning in the upper abdomen that may be accompanied by nausea and abdominal bloating, is mostly caused by devouring too many sweets and fats in a short period of time. It’s eating too much, too soon, and eating the things that slow down the digestion process, particularly stomach emptying.

Fats and sweets are plentiful during the holiday season and commonly make up the food everyone wants to eat and enjoy. However, these foods slow down the stomach’s emptying process and can even lead to increased esophageal acid reflux because there is nowhere for the food to go.

Also, carbonated beverages tend to cause more expansion in the stomach, making a person feel fuller and bloated.

To avoid indigestion discomfort, a person should limit portion sizes and chew slowly to savor tastes and watch the intake of fatty and sugary foods. In addition, he or she should spread the consumption of these foods throughout courses, drink water before and during a meal to give the feeling of a full stomach and limit alcohol intake, which can cause acid reflux.

Also, getting involved in a pickup football game or taking a walk around the block can help. Physical activity can aid in digestion.

Over-the-counter antacids or acid reducers may help if these tips don’t work. However, if your symptoms persist for more than a day or so or actually happen on a recurring basis, there may be a more serious problem. In these cases, it’s best to see your doctor.

People with cardiac conditions or risks should also keep these tips in mind, as studies show heart attacks can occur after the intake of a big meal.

The holidays can be a lot of fun, but you’ll enjoy them even more if you understand what makes your stomach full. I urge you to eat, drink and be merry, but avoid stuffing yourself.

Jonathan Kushner, MD,

sees patients at UC Health West Chester. To schedule an appointment, call (513)

475-7505

.