Hangover Hacks

How to dodge the dreaded post drinking slump

From the LifeMinute.TV Team

December 11, 2022

A hangover consists of a set of symptoms that occur from drinking too much alcohol. Symptoms can vary from person to person but typically include headaches or migraines, thirst, dizziness, fatigue, nausea, sweating, and loss of appetite. While there are no scientifically backed cures for a hangover, there are ways to help lessen the blow of getting one. Here are some suggestions.

Fill up before sipping up
On an empty stomach, alcohol quickly goes to your intestines and into your bloodstream, making you intoxicated faster. When your stomach is full, it’s more challenging for your body to absorb the alcohol. Foods high in fat, like avocados, may help prevent a hangover after an evening of drinking. Fatty foods slow down the absorption of alcohol in the body. You can also eat these healthy fats before going out. Same with high-fiber foods like lentils and popcorn, which break down alcohol and absorb it, keeping it from reaching the bloodstream as quickly. Consuming protein-rich eggs or unsweetened Greek yogurt before drinking alcohol can also delay alcohol absorption. Plus, protein keeps you feeling fuller for longer, which can reduce your risk of alcohol-induced food binges later in the evening. If you can’t eat before drinking, eat while drinking to ensure your body is getting more than just empty calories.

Hydrate
Even if you have to alternate every other alcoholic drink with a glass of water, staying hydrated with plenty of water throughout the day or night can help reduce the risk of a hangover the next day.

Track and pace
By sticking to one type of alcoholic drink, you can better keep track of how much you’re consuming. And drinking slowly can prevent your body from absorbing the alcohol too quickly. When in doubt, limit yourself to one drink per hour.

Steer clear of higher congener liquors and carbonated beverages
Liquor contains compounds called congeners that give alcoholic beverages their color and flavor. Many convert to toxic aldehydes the next day as your body digests them, contributing to hangovers. Avoid darker drinks, like red wine, whiskey, or brandy, which contain more congeners than lighter-colored beverages. White wine and clear spirits, such as vodka, typically cause a less intense and prolonged hangover. Try to avoid carbonated drinks too. Carbonation can cause the surface area of the stomach to expand, which can result in increased alcohol absorption.

What to do, if you do get a hangover…
If you get a hangover, bland carbohydrates, like toast and crackers, can fight nausea, provide sugar, and help absorb any alcohol left in the stomach. Drinking water, juice, broth, and other non-alcoholic beverages can reduce dehydration. Getting quality sleep may also reduce the severity of your symptoms and help your body recover.