Do Schnapps Really Aid Digestion?

Whether it’s grappa, cognac, herbal bitters or limoncello: it’s considered etiquette in many cultures to serve a digestive juice after a hearty meal. Herbal extracts and spices are said to have a digestive effect. In fact, some “Verdauerians” taste like medicine. A relaxed feeling begins, a full stomach calms down, and after what feels like a ton of cheese, you want nothing more than to roll into bed.

However, this is a placebo effect. You may be sipping water or tea. What’s more: digestive schnapps even inhibit digestion!

But a fairy tale?

At least that’s the result of a small Swiss study done in 2010. A fondue with 32% fat content was served to the participants. Some took black tea, some drank wine. After the meal, some participants were given liquor for digestion, while others had to make do with water.

The result of the scientific study: The more alcohol consumed, the greater the digestive problems. The relaxing effect of alcohol backfires exactly here: If the muscles of the stomach walls relax too much, the pumping action slows down and the stomach contents no longer move.

Alcohol before, not after, a meal

You don’t have to give up alcohol completely. Bitter substances in alcohol, coffee and other beverages stimulate the gastric mucosa to produce more acid for pre-digestion. If you eat a snack like sherry or prosecco half an hour before a meal, you’re actually doing your digestion a favor. A glass of wine during a meal won’t hurt either – it’s important to drink in moderation.

If you still miss your “Verdauerli”, it’s best to take an herb crunch with anise, fennel or cumin and limit yourself to a 2cl glass.

this really helps

It is better to drink a cup of coffee or herbal tea after a fatty meal. But don’t laze on the couch afterwards! The same Swiss study suggests that exercise is still the best medicine for digestion. Plan a nice digestive walk for your next fondue feast or raclette feast!