11 Proven Methods to Alleviate a Hangover
May 1, 2024
The morning after a wild night leaves you feeling dreadful. Your head throbs, your mouth is parched, and nausea looms. While last night was a blast, the consequences are hitting you hard. You may have encountered various hangover cure rumors, but there’s no need to indulge in excessive greasy foods. With these straightforward strategies, you can ward off and ease your hangover symptoms, swiftly restoring your well-being.
Hydrate Strategically
Before, during, and after drinking alcohol, make sure to hydrate adequately. Dehydration exacerbates hangover symptoms, so drinking water before bed and throughout the following day can help restore your body’s hydration levels. Proper hydration also aids in flushing toxins from your system efficiently.
Alternate with Water
Consume a glass of water for each alcoholic beverage you have. Drinking water in between drinks slows down alcohol absorption, extends the time between drinks, and mitigates alcohol’s dehydrating effects.
Moderate Your Alcohol Intake
Overindulging in alcohol leads to hangovers. While it’s fine to enjoy yourself, excessive drinking can cause severe hangover symptoms. Men who consume five to seven drinks in four to six hours and women who have three to five drinks within the same period are likely to experience a hangover. Moderation is key to avoiding hangovers.
Consider OTC Pain Relievers
Over-the-counter pain relievers like aspirin can help alleviate hangover symptoms by inhibiting the formation of prostaglandins, which regulate pain responses in the body. However, avoid combining alcohol with acetaminophen-containing painkillers to prevent liver damage. Take pain relievers after waking up rather than before bed for optimal effectiveness.
Prioritize Rest
After drinking, prioritize getting ample sleep to help your body recover. Alcohol disrupts sleep patterns, leading to decreased REM cycles and lighter sleep. Although you can’t entirely counteract the effects of disrupted sleep, getting sufficient rest can improve your overall well-being post-partying.
Opt for Lighter Drinks
Dark alcoholic beverages contain more congeners, which contribute to hangover symptoms. Opt for lighter drinks like gin or vodka cocktails to reduce the likelihood of experiencing a headache the next morning.
Avoid Drinking on an Empty Stomach
Drinking alcohol on an empty stomach leads to rapid alcohol absorption into the bloodstream. Eating a fatty meal before drinking slows alcohol absorption, preventing a rapid rise in blood alcohol levels. Enjoy a hearty meal before drinking to mitigate the effects of alcohol on an empty stomach.
Replenish Electrolytes
Alcohol inhibits antidiuretic hormone secretion, leading to increased urination and electrolyte loss. Replenish lost electrolytes by drinking water or coconut water the day after drinking alcohol to support hydration and electrolyte balance.
Try Sugary Foods
Consuming sugary foods like honey may help alleviate tremors associated with hangovers. Honey’s high fructose content may aid in alcohol metabolism, facilitating its elimination from the body. However, sugary foods have not been proven to alleviate other hangover symptoms.
Consider Supplements
Certain supplements like prickly pear cactus extract and red ginseng may alleviate hangover symptoms by aiding alcohol metabolism and reducing their effects on the body. Incorporate these supplements into your routine to potentially mitigate hangover severity.
Explore IV Drip Therapy
IV drip therapy can rapidly replenish electrolytes and deliver essential nutrients to alleviate hangover symptoms effectively. Consider scheduling an IV drip session for a quick and comprehensive hangover remedy.