Roman feast

You survived Thanksgiving, but Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and Festivus are coming up, so there may be a food coma in your future. In my house, the TORPOR that hits you after eating a big meal is known as a “post-prandial alkaline tide.” Growing up, I had to listen to that kind of dinner REPARTEE because both of my parents are doctors.

Exactly why you need a nap after eating a large meal, especially if it’s fatty, is not clear to scientists, but there are some things you can do to prevent or MITIGATE this effect:

• chew your food thoroughly (chewing helps digestion)
• eat small portions of food
• choose less fats and carbs, more veggies
• don’t rush through the meal
• exercise before and after the meal

Consider breaking up the REPAST with a walk before the dessert course. PERAMBULATE to avoid becoming SOMNOLENT.

Charis

TORPOR = lethargy
REPARTEE = conversation
MITIGATE = lessen
REPAST = meal
PERAMBULATE = walk
SOMNOLENT = sleepy

Order “Cook Your Way Through The S.A.T.” for great cooking, great words, and fun facts.