How to avoid gastrointestinal problems and bloating, according to Dr. Ines Lipperheide: “It’s not all about Omeprazole”

The holidays are a time of celebration, family reunions and gatherings with friends. However, it is also a time prone to excesses in food, alcohol and other habits that can affect our digestive health. The feeling of heaviness, fullness and even heartburn or reflux is common during these festive dates. That is why we have the recommendations and experience of Ines Lipperheide, intensive care physician at Puerta de Hierro and aesthetic doctor at Martin del Yerro and Amselem, who warns us that “not everything is omeprazole”, as well as giving us the causes of gastroesophageal reflux and recommendations to mitigate it.

Measures to prevent and relieve reflux

To avoid or alleviate the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux during the holidays, Lipperheide recommends following some steps such as:

Improve eating habits: opt for lighter meals and avoid large portions. It is advisable to eat smaller amounts but more frequently.

Avoid irritating foods: reduce your intake of fats, fried foods, spicy foods, chocolate and coffee. It is also advisable to minimise alcohol and stop smoking.

Sleeping position: elevate your head when sleeping using two pillows to prevent acids from rising up the esophagus.

Rest time: wait at least two hours after eating before lying down to allow for better digestion.

Targeted treatment: for those with persistent or diagnosed symptoms, it is recommended to consult a doctor.

Symptomatic treatment: there are over-the-counter antacids available that can temporarily relieve the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux.

If you experience ongoing episodes of gastroesophageal reflux, it is essential to see a gastroenterologist for proper evaluation.

What is gastroesophageal reflux?

The burning sensation that many people experience during the holidays is due to incompetence of the lower esophageal sphincter, which separates the esophagus from the stomach. When this sphincter does not function properly, stomach acids can ascend into the esophagus, causing what is known as gastroesophageal reflux. Typical symptoms include pain or burning in the epigastric area (under the sternum) that may radiate to the throat. The most common causes of this discomfort are:

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