Bid adieu to the year in a healthy way

Feed your craving for that star of the day. Eat it slowly, savour it well and keep the rest of your food intake on a lighter note.”

Dr Anand Vadivel, specialist gastroenterologist, Int’l Modern Hospital

DUBAI — We are on the verge of bidding goodbye to the year with mixed emotions and are looking forward for a brand new year 2019 in a few days.

During celebrations with our friends and family, there may be a pounding headache the next morning after a night out, and excessive calorie-intake can be quite a mood spoiler the next day, said Dr Anand Vadivel, specialist gastroenterologist, International Modern Hospital. Some expert tips on how you can enjoy the big night with health conscience.

Decide in advance what is going to be your favourite at the party, said the doctor. “Feed your craving for that star of the day. Eat it slowly, savour it well and keep the rest of your food intake on a lighter note,” he said. “Have a small snack, about one hour before party time to curb excessive hunger. Try tucking into some high fibre or protein-rich snacks,” he added. A whole wheat-toast, sprouts, peanuts are good options.

New Year parties are filled with snacks of all kinds. “Something light amongst the greasy range of snacks is always appreciated.”

Avoiding alcohol and bingeeating altogether is the best choice. But if you don’t wish to exercise that discretion, sipping a glass of water after every drink you take will not only prevent you from over-drinking and the pounding headache the next day but will also prevent dehydration and overeating, said Dr Anand.

The worst part about any New Year party is waking up to a painful headache. “Eating something before a party can delay the body’s speed of absorbing alcohol, snacks replenish the body with an important hangover-fighting electrolyte: Sodium,” he said.

Chunky almonds and nuts for their healthy fats and proteins can also slow down the absorption of alcohol. Needless to say, avoiding alcohol is the easiest option, he said.