Alcohol consumed with a heavy meal slows digestion, but not enough to cause indigestion, reports the British Medical Journal.
A pleasant and useful study by scientists at the University Hospital of Zurich, 20 healthy volunteers (14 men and 6 women) aged 23 to 58 years old, without being overweight, took part. They ate a typical Swiss dish – a greasy cheese fondue with wine or black tea, and an hour and a half after the meal they drank a little cherry liqueur or water.
Dr. Mark Fox, the leader of the team, explained that the research was to check how alcohol affects digestion and well-being after a heavy meal, which may be important with the upcoming holidays.
They found that alcohol slowed down the digestive process but did not increase the frequency of symptoms such as heartburn, gas and belching. Scientists encourage healthy readers to enjoy a traditional Christmas meal without fear (but also without exaggeration). (PAP)