Archive · 7 Jan 2026
GI Doctor Shares IBD Holiday Tips
People with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) often find the festive season challenging due to rich foods, irregular meal timings, and disrupted routines.
Dr. Joseph Salhab, a gastroenterologist, shared five tips to enjoy the holidays without worsening IBD symptoms.
He recommends eating a Mediterranean diet with veggies, lean protein, olive oil, and whole grains, staying hydrated with water or sparkling water, avoiding alcohol, taking medications on time, and maintaining a consistent routine with daily movement and stress management.
Dr. Adithya V. Naragund, another expert, suggests eating a small, safe meal before gatherings and practicing portion control to avoid overindulgence.
Both experts caution against common triggers like alcohol, fried foods, and spices, emphasizing the importance of personalization in managing IBD.
Dr. Joseph Salhab recommends a Mediterranean diet with veggies, lean protein, olive oil, and whole grains for people with IBD during the holidays.
Staying hydrated with water or sparkling water and avoiding alcohol is crucial for managing IBD symptoms.
Taking medications on time and avoiding high-dose NSAIDs can help prevent IBD flare-ups.
Maintaining a consistent routine with daily movement and stress management is important for gut health.
Dr. Adithya V. Naragund advises eating a small, safe meal before gatherings and practicing portion control to avoid overindulgence.
- Who
- People with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
- What
- Tips for managing IBD during the festive season
- When
- During the festive season
- Where
- General advice applicable worldwide
- Why
- To manage IBD symptoms and enjoy the festive season without triggering flare-ups
- Expert
- Dr. Joseph Salhab, gastroenterologist
- Diet Recommendation
- Mediterranean diet with veggies, lean protein, olive oil, and whole grains
- Hydration Advice
- Water or sparkling water with lemon; avoid alcohol
- Medication Awareness
- Take medications on time and avoid high-dose NSAIDs
- Lifestyle Tips
- Daily movement, stress management, and consistent routines
- Additional Expert
- Dr. Adithya V. Naragund, GI & HPB Surgery consultant
- Holiday Eating Strategy
- Eat a small, safe meal before gatherings and practice portion control
- Common Triggers
- Alcohol, fried foods, heavy cream-based dishes, added sugars, raw vegetables, nuts, seeds, dried fruits, spices, and artificial sweeteners