Don't Let Holiday Heartburn Turn You Into A Grinch

Egg nog. Holiday meats. Cookies. Booze. Rich sauces. Wine. It's not just the holiday season, according to dietitians -- it's the heartburn season.

"What people do during the holidays is a perfect setup to provoking heartburn," said a spokesman for the American Gastroenterological Association.

Dietitians say there are ways to get around heartburn without avoiding your favorite Christmas treats.

For example, if you know the party will feature foods that trigger heartburn, graze in advance and go easy on the fat platters.

Mix water or club soda with alcohol, because liquor tends to worsen heartburn.

And know the difference between heartburn and a heart attack. Heartburn usually occurs after a meal. A heart attack is often related to activity.

Here are more tips for avoiding holiday heartburn from Shoppers Drug Mart Corp., based in Canada:

Know and avoid the food and drink that may trigger your symptoms of heartburn or indigestion.
Avoid overeating. A stomach that is too full can feel painful and bloated.
Eat slowly and enjoy your food.
Wear loose-fitting clothes or loosen your belt or waistband.
Do not bend down or lay down immediately after eating.
Avoid eating three hours before bed time. Food contents in your stomach empty faster if you lie on your left side when sleeping
Reduce the use of cigarettes and nicotine products.
Exercise to help reduce stress levels and keep your body relaxed.
If you do have stomach pain, a mild heartburn in your chest, a sour taste in your mouth or difficulty swallowing, consult with your doctor or pharmacist.