Before tackling the festivities, Dr Gérald Kierzek would like to dispel a myth. “Liver crisis is a very French disease. We are the only ones who use this term, everywhere else in the world they don’t know!”
If the term is indeed ours, physiological reality knows no borders. The combined effects of fat, sugar and alcohol on our bodies are universal. To avoid harming your stomach from the start, everything comes down to the preparation.
Why fasting before D-Day is a (very) bad idea
You might think that 48 hours of water and dry bread is the ideal solution to compensate for future abuse. Still, Dr. Kierzek is adamant. “You must not do this!”
For what ? Because “Fasting is the best way to arrive at the table with a stomach crying out for hunger.” calls back the doctor.
The risk is to throw yourself at the first platter of sausage that comes along, eating twice as quickly and twice as much as necessary.
“It’s the perfect recipe for indigestion.” he adds. “The goal is not to arrive with an empty stomach, but to arrive ready, like an athlete warming up before a competition.”
The training phase, to begin two days before the D-day
To prepare your digestive enzymes, Dr Gérald Kierzek advises following this routine 48 hours before New Year’s Eve:
- Stay regular: Maintain 3 balanced meals per day without skipping any;
- Focus on “light-nutritious”: Favor vegetables (cooked or raw), lean proteins (fish, poultry) and whole grains;
- Hydrate massively: Drink water regularly throughout the day, and reduce sugary drinks and alcohol;
- Avoid overloading: Avoid dishes with sauces and fried foods.
By doing this, “we prepare digestive enzymes which will be in good shape on D-day” specifies the doctor.
Keep in mind the key word: “Lightness”
In the morning and noon of New Year’s Eve, eat light but substantial to avoid afternoon cravings.
- Breakfast: Yogurt, oatmeal and fruit (or a slice of cheese);
- Lunch: If the big meal is in the evening, plan a soup or a small salad;
- The aperitif tip: Drink a large glass of water before starting. “Take the opportunity to socialize rather than stuff your stomach with chips and peanuts“recalls the doctor.
4 reflexes to survive the meal without saturating
Once at the table, your behavior makes all the difference:
- Chew: This is the first step in digestion. The more you chew, the less your stomach works;
- Take your time: Place your fork between each dish;
- Listen to your satiety: The signal takes 20 minutes to reach the brain. “If we eat too quickly, we cross the finish line without realizing it.”
warns Dr. Kierzek. - Alternate drinks with water: A glass of water between each glass of wine helps dilute fats and facilitates transit.
By following this preparation, you will be able to fully enjoy your meal, without experiencing any inconvenience.