Doctor Verena Says, How To Indulge At Christmas Guilt Free

Is there a way to enjoy eating too much at Christmas lunch as well as attend those parties and and not feel sick or seedy the next day? Yes, there is, according to Australian Clinical Nutritionist, speaker and author Doctor Verena.

Doctor Verena – who specialises in gut health – says the secret is all about taking care of and managing the gut. She says readers don’t have to derail their health and suffer from a food and booze hangover this Christmas and Holiday season, but instead wake up feeling human! *because let’s face it, we love to indulge but we hate feeling awful the next day!

Says Doctor Verena, “The secret to not feeling seedy or unwell the next day, following a Christmas binge, is in maintaining gut health and balance. Follow my tips here, and rather than waking up feeling average, you can wake up feeling well and ready for the next party or Christmas lunch.”

1. 16:8 Intermittent Fasting

Intermittent fasting allows your digestive system to rest and supports fat metabolism. Using the 16:8 method, where you fast for 16 hours and eat within an 8-hour window, intermittent fasting helps prevent overeating and reduces liver strain, especially if you stop eating before 8pm.

2. Start the Day with a Protein-Rich Breakfast

A protein-packed breakfast, with at least 30g of protein, stabilises blood sugar and fuels you for the day. Options like scrambled eggs with spinach, smoked salmon with beans, or a veggie omelette with kimchi offer a balanced start that supports gut health.

3. Master Blood Sugar Regulation with the Right Eating Order

Eating vegetables first, followed by protein, and finishing with carbohydrates helps regulate blood sugar levels and improves alcohol tolerance. This eating order slows the absorption of sugar, preventing blood sugar spikes and promoting stable energy levels.

4. Include 2 Servings of Probiotic Foods Daily

Boost gut health by incorporating two servings of probiotic-rich foods like sauerkraut, kimchi, yogurt, or kefir each day. Probiotics balance gut bacteria, support digestion, and reduce inflammation, helping your system manage indulgent holiday meals.

5. Stay Hydrated—Water is Your Best Friend!

Stay hydrated to support digestion and prevent bloating. Drink water regularly throughout the day, and alternate alcoholic drinks with water to reduce dehydration and hangovers. Adding a pinch of Celtic sea salt can also help with mineral balance.

6. Add Fibre to Your Takeaways

If you’re indulging in takeaway meals, sneak in extra fibre by adding a side salad with seasonal vegetables and legumes like beluga lentils or edamame beans. This boosts your fibre intake, supports digestion, and helps prevent post-meal sluggishness, allowing you to enjoy your favourite holiday treats while staying on top of your gut health.

To learn more, go to https://doctorverena.com/blog-1 and for more free health tips, follow her on Instagram @doctorverena

Doctor Verena treats patients both in her clinic and via Zoom all over Australia and globally. She is an author and speaker and regularly appears at events and on podcasts.