After 40 days of fasting, the dinner on Easter Saturday night is meant to prepare the stomach for the rich Easter Sunday meal. However, this can also be taxing. Here are the 5 most common mistakes and how to avoid them:
1. We arrive on Easter Saturday night with a completely empty stomach
After 40 days of fasting, the body needs a gentle “wake-up.”
Tip: Eat a small, light meal at noon (e.g., a salad with olives and bread). This way, you won’t dive headfirst into the table.
2. We start directly with meat and cheese
Magiritsa (Easter soup) exists for a reason. The greens and rice prepare the stomach for the “heavy” food that will follow the next day.
Tip: Eat the magiritsa first as your main meal. If you want something afterwards, prefer a little cheese or an egg, not lamb chops.
3. We drink alcohol on an empty stomach
Wine or tsipouro goes to your head much faster when the stomach is empty, especially after fasting.
Tip: If you drink, do so after the magiritsa and in moderation. Otherwise, your head will betray you the next day.
4. We eat (and drink) quickly and excessively
The joy of the moment makes us not stop: clinking eggs, appetizers, sweets.
Tip: Take a short break. Let your body “register” what it has eaten.
5. We go to sleep immediately after
The combination of food and fatigue is explosive for digestion.
Tip: If you feel bloated before sleep, take a short walk before lying down.
🧬 A little different for each type:
The way one breaks the fast is not the same for everyone. Depending on your Hippocratic type, pay a little extra attention:
- Choleric (Hot/Dry): You are prone to bloating and heartburn. Avoid too much lemon and acidic foods in the evening. Start with warm magiritsa (not cold) to protect your stomach.
- Melancholic (Cold/Dry): Your body needs lubrication. Add a little olive oil to your magiritsa and avoid dry wine. Prefer red wine (in moderation) which is more warming.
- Phlegmatic (Cold/Wet): You are at risk of heaviness and drowsiness. Add a little pepper or ginger to your magiritsa to “burn” the moisture. Definitely take that walk after eating!
- Sanguine (Hot/Wet): Your digestion is strong, but don’t take advantage of it! Stay away from too many sweets.
— Dr. Angeliki Makri, Clinical Dietitian, MSc, PhD, Medical School NKUA
