7 ways to stop acidity, bloating, indigestion during Year-end festivities: Gastroenterologist suggests unique tips

Why festive foods are more likely to upset the stomach

Dr Akash Chaudhary, Clinical Director and Senior Consultant, Medical Gastroenterology, CARE Hospitals, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad, says that for many, year-end gatherings mean several rounds of rich meals, late dinners and a mix of sweet, salty, and fried dishes. He points out that the stomach is built to handle a wide range of foods, but sudden shifts in quantity, timing and composition can overwhelm even a healthy gut.

Heavy, high-fat meals slow down digestion

Celebration foods — rich gravies, fried starters, buttery sweets and sugary drinks — are usually loaded with fat and quick-digesting carbs. This combination naturally slows how quickly the stomach empties, leaving food sitting there longer than it should, says Dr Chaudhary. When that happens, it’s common to feel heavy, overly full, gassy, or even notice a warm, burning discomfort rising in the chest.

Festive spices and acidic ingredients irritate the upper gut

Pickles, chutneys, tomato-based dishes, citrus marinades and spicy gravies can irritate the lining of the oesophagus and stomach. People who already live with reflux or a generally sensitive stomach often notice their symptoms flaring up around the holidays, simply because festive meals tend to be heavier and full of things that don’t sit well with them.

Carbonated beverages worsen bloating

Soft drinks, sparkling juices and mocktails introduce excess gas into the digestive system, leading to distension and discomfort. It relaxes the valve that prevents stomach acid from moving upward, making heartburn more likely after a heavy dinner.

How holiday habits compound digestive issues

Doctors point out that festive dishes contribute a lot, but the way we behave during the holidays also makes a big difference.

Late-night dinners disrupt the body’s digestive rhythm

During the holidays, people often eat later than usual and continue snacking past midnight. Lying down soon after eating encourages acid to move upward and makes bloating more pronounced. The digestive system functions best when meals are eaten earlier, and the body gets a few hours to process food before sleep.

Stress, rushing and irregular meal timing weaken digestion

With travel, hosting, and endless tasks, holiday stress can lower stomach acid and slow the gut’s natural rhythm. Eating on the move or while preoccupied also makes people swallow excess air, which adds to bloating.

Low fibre intake slows bowel movement

Buffets and festive menus often lean heavily on refined carbs and meats, leaving little room for vegetables or whole grains. Even a short dip in fibre can slow bowel movements and leave the body feeling heavy and sluggish.

Everyday strategies to prevent festive digestive flare-ups

Simple, regular habits can help reduce the effects of holiday overeating and relieve symptoms, says Dr Chaudhary.

1. Eat slowly and pace your portions

Eating at a relaxed pace and chewing thoroughly helps the body recognise when it’s had enough, reducing the chances of going overboard.

2. Balance rich dishes with lighter sides

Eating heavy foods with some vegetables, soups, or salads helps digestion and eases post-meal discomfort.

3. Stay well-hydrated throughout the day

Water supports digestion, helps prevent constipation, and lessens the severity of acidity.

4. Cut down on fizzy drinks

This helps prevent bloating and lowers the risk of reflux.

5. Take short walks after meals

Gentle movement improves gut motility and helps prevent acidity and heaviness.

6. Use simple home measures for relief

Sipping warm water, peppermint tea, or a modest amount of fennel after meals often helps calm the stomach.

7. Seek medical advice when symptoms are severe or persistent

If acidity worsens or if someone has repeated vomiting, trouble swallowing, or black stools, they should seek medical help immediately.

Key Takeaways

• Understand how holiday foods can trigger acidity, bloating, and indigestion.
• Mindful eating habits can significantly reduce digestive discomfort during festive meals.
• Incorporating vegetables and hydration into meals helps ease digestion.