Alcohol With Calorie-Rich Meal Slows Digestion, But Does Not Cause Indigestion

Researchers in Germany and Switzerland have found that though alcohol does slow down digestion after a calorie-rich meal, it doesn’t lead to indigestion problems such as heartburn, gas or bloating. The study included 20 people who drank either white wine or black tea with a meal of cheese fondue, followed by either cherry schnapps or water 90 minutes later. The participants were tested on two days at least one week apart. Established scientific breath tests were used to assess the effects of alcohol consumption on the digestive system.  “Healthy readers should be reassured that they can continue to enjoy this traditional meal with the beverage of their choice without undue concern about postprandial digestive comfort,” the authors concluded.