how to survive Thanksgiving with a food intolerance

Thanksgiving is famous for its foods. From turkey to mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce to pumpkin pie, there are plenty of classic Thanksgiving dishes that can leave the mouth-watering and the taste buds happy.

However, for many, that is where the enjoyment ends. Once through the mouth and in the digestive tract, the smorgasbord of unique annual dishes can stir up digestive issues, such as IBS and food intolerances.

If you’re concerned about your digestion or that of your loved ones this Thanksgiving, here are a few tips to help you enjoy the biggest holiday meal of the year without doubling over in pain by the time the big day wraps up.

talk to the host ahead of time

One of the simplest ways to head off digestive concerns is to talk to the host wherever you plan on visiting. It’s likely that they are already under a lot of pressure, so try not to make too many requests.

Instead, simply ask what kind of foods will be present so that you can start to make your meal plans before you arrive.

get the right digestive supplements

If you have a food intolerance, you may find that it can disqualify you from a lot of options in a traditional Thanksgiving Day buffet. A lactose intolerance, for instance, can leave you dodging everything from green bean casserole to mac and cheese, mashed potatoes, and even pie.

If you want to enjoy the food without worrying about upsetting your stomach, consider bringing a digestive enzyme supplement with you. Intoleran’s lactase 20,000, for instance, can help with the aforementioned lactose intolerance. Starchway enables you to enjoy mashed potatoes. Quatrase 10,000 allows you to deal with a variety of intolerances or IBS symptoms whilst still enjoying your favorite Thanksgiving foods.

take small initial portions

Portion control is a great way to curb the digestive repercussions of Thanksgiving Day. Simply using a smaller plate and eating restricted quantities of food makes it easier for your body to process food throughout the day.

You can also use etiquette in your favor. Remember, your host worked hard on your meal. By taking smaller initial portions, you can accept seconds when offered without overstuffing yourself in the process.

talk to kids ahead of time

Finally, if you’re managing little ones with food intolerances, make sure to brief them beforehand. Help them grasp the importance of considering each choice that they make and eating thoughtfully rather than with their eyes.

Boston Children’s Hospital recommends having a discussion with the kiddos ahead of time. Explain what is safe to eat and warn them about how easy it is for an ingredient to hide in a dish. While this is in relation to food allergies, the same principles apply to food intolerances, as well.

surviving Thanksgiving with a food intolerance

Thanksgiving is a fun day to enjoy food with family and friends. However, for those managing digestive concerns, choosing from a buffet of options with unknown ingredients can be fraught with peril.

Use the tips above to help you survive Thanksgiving without upsetting your stomach in the process. That way, you can enjoy each and every bite without worrying about paying the price later on.