5 tips for SURVIVING YOUR CHRISTMAS PARTY with your health intact

Suffer from a self-inflicted sore head and dodgy digestion after a Christmas do? Here’s how to enjoy the event without feeling unwell the following day.

EAT LUNCH

You might starve yourself all day so you feel less guilty about scoffing the finger food – but you’re less likely to experience heartburn if you fill up on healthy calories first. Then, sneak just a small sample of finger food.

SKIP THE COCKTAILS

Their sugary syrups often mask the taste of multiple shots of spirits, so it’s difficult to keep track of how much alcohol you’ve consumed. Stick to low alcohol wine or light beer.

HYDRATE

For every gram of alcohol you drink you’ll expel 10ml more urine than usual.

This can lead to dehydration and headaches. Alternate between alcoholic drinks and still or sparkling water, and drink an extra glass before you go to bed.

BROWSE BEFORE YOU BINGE

If there’s a buffet, avoid piling your plate sky high. Instead, give the spread a once-over and choose two dishes you’d really like to try, then serve yourself a small portion of each. Fill the rest of your plate with salad or vegetables.

GET MINTY

Once you’ve had your fill, pop a mint or gum in your mouth or, if you can, stash your toothbrush and toothpaste in your purse, slip away and brush your teeth. Mint stops you feeling hungry, and anything you try to eat or drink afterwards will taste terrible!