Science Quickly Gut Health Tips for the Holidays
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Nov 19, 2025 In this insightful conversation, Kathryn Tomasino, an associate professor of gastroenterology at Northwestern University, shares her expertise on gut health especially during the holiday season. She explains how digestion is impacted not just by what we eat, but also by our stress levels and sleep quality. Kathryn provides practical tips to enjoy holiday meals without discomfort, such as mindful eating and choosing minimally processed sides. Plus, she discusses the surprising effects of stress and alcohol on gut function, emphasizing the importance of self-care during festive times.
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Gut Health Extends Beyond Diet
- Gut health is influenced by many factors beyond diet like sleep, stress, breathing, and chewing.
- These non-diet elements can significantly alter digestion and symptom severity.
The Brain–Gut Nervous Connection
- The gut has its own extensive nervous and immune systems that interact with the brain.
- Stress triggers physiological gut responses like nausea, diarrhea, or heartburn via that brain-gut link.
Avoid Overeating Past Fullness
- Avoid eating past the point of fullness because stomach overstretching triggers reflux, bloating, and pain.
- Limit high-volume and highly processed foods that make overconsumption more likely.