- Keep to Your Routines - Continue to take your medication on time and get regular rest. Relapses of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are bound to happen when you don't follow the routine that works for you.
- Beat the Blues - If you feel the holiday blues coming on, don't be afraid to talk to your healthcare provider. The sooner you get help, the better you will feel throughout the season.
- Don't Party Too Hard - Decide which social functions you can realistically attend without stress overload. Running yourself ragged to make every holiday party can leave you too tired to enjoy any of them.
- Bring in the Family - Be up front with family and friends about holiday doings. Let them know that you may pass on some traditional holiday fare in order to avoid being ill.
- Use the 'Net - Holiday shopping while wondering where the restrooms are isn't anyone's idea of fun. Why not do your shopping on the Internet or by catalog? Remember to start early to give plenty of time for shipping.
- Cheers! - Be sensible about holiday drinking. Some people with IBD find that alcohol can contribute to symptoms such as diarrhea or gas.
- Less is more - Keep your entertaining simple, and save yourself energy and frustration.
- Gimme a Break! - Take a time out for yourself if you need it. Some quiet time to de-stress is important.
- Travel Well - If you're traveling across the country or just across town, be sure to prepare yourself and your companions in the way that's best for you.
- Set a Shopping Budget - Map out your budget for holiday shopping and stick to it to avoid impulse buys, over spending, and over shopping.
- Share the Love - Remind your family and friends how much you love them by telling them. After all, this is what the holidays are about, right?
- Get Crafty! - Save time, money, and stress by making some gifts at home. Homemade gifts from the heart will always be cherished.
- Holiday Greetings - Save time and money and send some Christmas, Kwanzaa, Hanukkah , or New Year e-cards instead of the paper variety.
- Life Isn't Perfect - Too many of us strive to have the "perfect" holiday parties and gifts. Take it easy on yourself -- you can still have a great time even if the food and decorations don't turn out picture perfect.
- Keep a Sense of Humor - Keep a smile on your face all season long with some holiday jokes, spoofs, and poetry.
15 Tips for the Holiday Season
The holiday season doesn't have to mean trouble for your gut.
By Amber J. Tresca, About.com
Updated: November 12, 2008
About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board
Explore Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
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