Have a IBS-friendly Thanksgiving with IBS
It’s that time of year again! The holiday season is upon us, and we get to kick things off with the celebration of Thanksgiving (US). As this season is packed with cheer it can also be packed with stress over the many things that have to be done. And as stress is the leading cause of Irritable Bowel Syndrome or IBS, the holidays can be a tough nut to crack.
Thanksgiving dinner being one of the biggest feasts of the year, it helps to have a game-plan going into all the festivities. There are some helpful tips for navigating that Thanksgiving meal that keeps the turkey on the plate!
1. Try to stay relaxed:
I know, easier said than done, but there is a close relationship between the digestive system and the brain. Thoughts can easily cause stress to the area and set off IBS symptoms such as intestinal motility, nausea, and constipation. Throughout the day try to prioritize only the important tasks at hand and don’t over exert yourself. Taking time to go for a walk, get fresh air, or watch a movie will help you stay calm and have a good day.
2. Don’t pile up the plate:
Trying to ‘make room’ from a massive meal like Thanksgiving is not practical for people with IBS (and to be honest everyone else) It’s not good practice to do on any day, but especially a day focused on food. People with IBS should especially start the day off with a good breakfast and then transition into eating smaller meals throughout the day. Snacks with whole grains, fruits, nuts, or fresh veggies are the way to go!
3. Stay clear of those gassy and fatty foods:
It’s sooooo tempting to go for those delicious foods that have been served for years, but at the end of the day your gut is not going to enjoy the nostalgia. You know your body best and you know what can give you gas, cause bloating, or other symptoms. Small changes in how you eat Thanksgiving dinner can help you out in the long term, as well as let you enjoy the foods you love. Like opting for turkey breast without gravy, whole grain rolls, maple- roasted sweet potatoes, and or roasted green beans.
We want you to have the best Thanksgiving a person with IBS can have, following these tips can let the day be fun and allow you not have to recover on Black Friday!