The morning after a big heavy night.
That dreaded hangover feeling sets in – pounding headache, nausea, fatigue, and dehydration. We’ve all been there – students are famous for it.
But do we have to deal with hangovers or is the a way to stop them?
In desperation, we often turn to supposed “hangover cures” for relief. But do these remedies truly work, or are they just myths perpetuated by hearsay?
Let’s separate fact from fiction and uncover the genuine ways to overcome a hangover.
What Exactly is a Hangover?
Before discussing potential remedies, let’s make sure we understand the root cause of a hangover. Here comes the science!
A hangover is a collection of unpleasant symptoms that occur after consuming excessive amounts of alcohol. You little rebel, you.
When alcohol enters the bloodstream, it acts as a diuretic, causing dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Additionally, alcohol is a toxin that the body must metabolize, leading to inflammation and oxidative stress.
The severity of a hangover depends on various factors, including the amount of alcohol consumed, the type of alcoholic beverages (with darker drinks like whiskey and red wine containing more congeners, which contribute to hangover intensity), and individual differences in alcohol metabolism and hydration levels.
In layman’s terms, you’ve poisoned yourself.
Debunking Common Cure Myths
We’ve all heard of them, but do they hold any truth?
Nope!
“Hair of the Dog” (Drinking More Alcohol)
One of the most widespread myths is the belief that having another alcoholic drink in the morning, known as the “hair of the dog,” can cure a hangover. However, this approach is not only ineffective but can also prolong and exacerbate the symptoms.
Drinking more alcohol may temporarily alleviate the discomfort, but it ultimately delays the body’s recovery process and can lead to further dehydration and toxin buildup. Moreover, this practice can contribute to the development of alcohol dependence over time.
Taking Painkillers Before Bed
Many people believe that taking painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen before going to bed can help alleviate the impending hangover. However, this approach is unlikely to be effective, as the effects of these medications typically wear off within 4-6 hours, well before the hangover kicks in.
Furthermore, combining alcohol with certain painkillers, such as acetaminophen (paracetamol), can be harmful to the liver, while non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen may increase stomach acid production, exacerbating the irritation caused by alcohol.
Consuming Vitamin C or Intravenous Vitamin Infusions
Some celebrities and influencers promote the idea of taking high doses of vitamin C or receiving intravenous vitamin infusions to prevent or cure hangovers. However, there is no scientific evidence to support these claims.
While vitamin C is an essential nutrient with antioxidant properties, it has not been proven to have a significant impact on hangover symptoms. Intravenous vitamin infusions may provide a temporary boost, but they do not directly address the underlying causes of a hangover.
Apart from anything else, attaching yourself to an IV is a bit excessive.
Potential Remedies with Limited Evidence
While the majority of hangover cure claims lack robust scientific support, a few remedies have shown some promising but limited evidence.
I’m not saying these work, but no one has proven that they definitely don’t:
- Clove Extract: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials found that clove extract may facilitate the excretion of alcohol from the body, potentially reducing the duration and severity of a hangover. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings.
- Tolfenamic Acid: Some studies suggest that taking tolfenamic acid before and after drinking could help reduce hangover symptoms like nausea, headaches, and tremors. However, it’s important to note that tolfenamic acid requires a doctor’s prescription in certain countries.
- Pyritinol (Pyridoxine Disulfide): Derived from vitamin B6, pyritinol is believed to help alleviate fatigue, a common symptom of a hangover. However, the evidence supporting its effectiveness is limited, and more research is needed.
It’s crucial to reiterate that these potential remedies have not been extensively studied, and their effects may vary among individuals. Additionally, the quality of evidence is generally low, and more rigorous research is required to establish their efficacy and safety.
What Really Works
Sorry to break it to you, especially if you currently have one, but there is no magic cure for a hangover.
However, there are several practical strategies that can help alleviate the symptoms and support the body’s recovery process:
- Stay Hydrated: Alcohol is a diuretic, which means it can lead to dehydration. Drinking plenty of water or electrolyte-rich beverages like sports drinks or coconut water can help replenish fluids and electrolytes lost during alcohol consumption. Even better, have a small glass of water with every alcoholic drink to help limit the effects of alcohol.
- Eat Nutrient-Rich Foods: Consuming foods rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants can help support the body’s detoxification process. Good options include fruits (such as berries, citrus fruits, and tomatoes), vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins like eggs or Greek yogurt.
- Get Adequate Rest: Alcohol can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to fatigue and grogginess the next day. Allowing the body to rest and recover by getting enough sleep can help alleviate hangover symptoms. Just make sure you crack a window if you’ve been in bed all day, because your room probably stinks.
- Avoid Greasy or Heavy Foods: While it may be tempting to indulge in greasy or heavy meals, these can be difficult to digest and may further strain the digestive system. Instead, opt for lighter, easily digestible foods like toast, crackers, or smoothies. Say no to the greasy spoon cafe down the road.
- Exercise Moderately: Don’t laugh. While intense exercise may be too strenuous when dealing with a hangover, light to moderate physical activity can help boost circulation, increase endorphin levels, and speed up the recovery process.
Prevention is Easier
While there is no foolproof cure for a hangover, the best approach is to prevent it from occurring in the first place.
I’m not saying don’t drink, but moderation is key when consuming alcohol, and staying hydrated throughout the night can help mitigate the severity of potential hangover symptoms.
Pace yourself. Getting over-excited and going too hard too soon is kind of immature, and you’ll only embarrass yourself.
If you do find yourself dealing with a hangover, focus on replenishing fluids, consuming nutrient-rich foods, and allowing your body to rest and recover.
Remember, while some remedies may provide temporary relief, the only surefire way to avoid a hangover is to limit your alcohol intake in the first place.
Will your night really get better if you have another shot?
