Reflux and Christmas: how to prevent symptoms after holiday lunches and dinners

“Large meals typical of this time of year lead to:

• gastric distension;
• a consequent increase in intragastric pressure.

This phenomenon facilitates the upward flow of gastric acid into the esophagus, which is the main cause of heartburn and irritation. It is therefore not uncommon to observe a flare-up (worsening) of symptoms during this period, even in patients who are usually well controlled,” explains Prof. Bona.

During the holidays, it can be difficult to strictly follow an anti-reflux diet, but some dietary strategies can significantly reduce the onset of symptoms:

• reduce the amount of food per meal by choosing smaller portions distributed throughout the day;
• limit fatty, fried, or highly elaborate foods, which require longer digestion times and increase acid secretion;
• limit or avoid alcoholic beverages, which irritate the stomach and increase acid production.

In addition to dietary choices, daily habits can also make a difference in controlling symptoms:

Proper chewing

“Eating slowly and chewing thoroughly represents the first phase of digestion and allows the stomach to work more efficiently. Prolonged chewing also reduces air swallowing, preventing gastric overdistension and related symptoms,” emphasizes Prof. Bona.

Avoid intense physical activity immediately after meals

Exercises that strongly engage the abdominal muscles may promote acid reflux.

“After lunch or dinner it is preferable to avoid strenuous activities that compress the abdominal area. Instead, a short walk, even just 15–20 minutes, should be preferred, as it promotes digestion in a natural and physiological way,” the Professor explains.

Avoid lying down immediately after eating

Lying down immediately after a meal is one of the conditions that most strongly promotes acid reflux and nighttime symptoms.

It is recommended to wait at least 2 to 3 hours before going to bed, allowing the stomach to partially empty and reducing the likelihood of nocturnal reflux.

“The goal is not to give up convivial moments, but to manage them more consciously, in order to prevent symptom onset and preserve well-being throughout the Christmas period," concludes Prof. Bona.

When symptoms become frequent and negatively affect quality of life or sleep, it is important to seek evaluation at a specialized center for a comprehensive diagnostic pathway. Assessment begins with first-level tests, such as gastroscopy, and may proceed to advanced investigations when necessary.

“As a reference center for upper digestive tract disorders. IRCCS Ospedale Galeazzi–Sant’Ambrogio plans further diagnostic evaluations when indicated, proposes the most appropriate treatment, and assesses the need for surgical intervention when necessary.

We are among the few centers in the region offering a comprehensive esophageal physiopathology service, where we perform second-level investigations such as:

• esophageal manometry;
• pH-impedance monitoring.

Both are essential to precisely define the most appropriate therapeutic pathway for each patient,” notes Prof. Bona.

Thanks to multidisciplinary expertise, advanced diagnostic technologies, and a personalized approach, IRCCS Ospedale Galeazzi–Sant’Ambrogio represents a reference point in Milan and Lombardy for the comprehensive management of gastroesophageal reflux disease, from diagnosis to medical and surgical treatment.