From the cookies to the pies, we all love to indulge during the holiday season. But could that actually lead to greater health issues?

In short, the answer is yes, especially if you suffer from GERD. Tuesday kicks off GERD Awareness Week. So, what exactly is it?

"GERD, or what most people refer to as heartburn, is something about 1 in 5 people experience monthly," Dr. Kenneth Eckhert, the Director of the Heartburn Center at Mercy Hospital of Buffalo said. "Usually, we use the term GERD when it is something that is happening more on a weekly basis." 

It takes place when the lower esophageal sphincter is weak, causing stomach acid to come back up into the esophagus. Dr. Eckhert also suffers from GERD.

He says if this sounds like something you have chronically, you should get it checked out. 

"It can cause other medical issues like asthma, hoarseness, and esophageal changes that could lead to esophageal cancer," Eckhert said. 

With Thanksgiving right around the corner, our dinner plates are going to be filled with tasty turkey and more. What on your plate could trigger GERD? 

"Mashed potatoes are probably good, it's the gravy that might cause it, I think the turkey. Really it's the spicy foods, the greasy foods," he said. "Pie should be good, as long as it's in moderation.”

Dr. Eckhert says moderation is key. But, it's tough to just take a few bites. 

If you happen to find yourself feeling icky, and out of medication, there are a few home remedies you can try. 

"Apple cider vinegar, baking soda, aloe vera juice, chewing gum, sugar-free gum, people have claimed that helps their symptoms," Eckhert said. 

If all else fails, and you decide maybe a holiday present to yourself is permanent fix, Dr. Eckhert says there are newer procedures that are less invasive. With that, the final advice he gives to his patients. 

"Not eating two to three hours before going to bed and weight loss," he said.