Then you know that overeating can have an exhausting effect. “After you eat a large meal, blood is diverted from your brain to your stomach for digestion,” says Ruth Frechman, R.D., a spokeswoman for the American Dietetic Association. Loaded plates and high-fat foods can also trigger acid reflux in those who are prone to it, which can cause a burning sensation in the chest, a sour taste in the mouth, and even regurgitation. And you’ll probably gain weight. “On average people usually gain one to two pounds during the holiday season,” Frechman says. “Once you start overeating for special occasions, it’s harder to adjust to eating less later.” The answer is not shunning your favorites to prevent food fallouts. Sticking with smaller portions and resisting the urge to have seconds and thirds will help. —Therese Borchard