How to recover from a hangover. Tips for tackling dehydration, boosting energy, and safely managing hangover symptoms. Learn the truth about hangover ‘cures’ and how to prevent hangovers in the future.

Tackling Dehydration: The Key to Hangover Relief

Dehydration is a major culprit behind hangover symptoms. Drinking plenty of water before bed and keeping a glass by your side can help alleviate the effects. You can also add a rehydration treatment sachet or a pinch of salt and sugar to your water to replace lost minerals.

Fueling Up: The Best Foods for Hangover Recovery

Eating something can help boost your energy levels when you’re feeling the effects of a hangover. The NHS recommends bouillon soup as a good source of vitamins and minerals to replenish your depleted resources. If you have an upset stomach, something sugary could help, and you can take an antacid to settle your stomach.

Caffeine Consumption: Moderation is Key

While a cup of coffee or tea is generally fine, be wary of drinking large amounts of very strong coffee. The high caffeine content can cause unpleasant symptoms like a fast heart rate or palpitations, which are not directly related to your hangover but can still be uncomfortable.

Managing Hangover Symptoms: Medication and Self-Care

You can take two paracetamol to treat a headache, but it’s important not to drive if you still have alcohol in your system or are feeling unwell. Alcohol is typically removed from the body at a rate of one unit per hour, but this can vary from person to person.

Preventing Hangovers: Moderation is Key

The best way to avoid a hangover is not to drink at all. If you do choose to drink, aim to consume smaller measures and alternate with water to pace yourself. Switching to alcohol-free or low-alcohol options can also help reduce your overall consumption and the risk of a hangover.

Debunking Hangover Myths

Contrary to popular belief, “hair of the dog” and various vitamin supplements are not effective cures for hangovers. Drinking more alcohol will only prolong the amount of time you have alcohol in your system, leading to a worse hangover once it’s gone. Exercising to “sweat it out” can also be risky, as it can further dehydrate you.

Prioritizing Long-Term Health

If you’re experiencing frequent hangovers, it may be a sign that your drinking patterns are harming your health. The UK Chief Medical Officers’ low-risk drinking guidelines can help you keep your alcohol consumption within safe limits and reduce your risk of long-term health issues.

Remember, the only true cure for a hangover is time. By following these tips and prioritizing your health, you can help alleviate the symptoms and prevent future hangovers from occurring.

What are the main causes of a hangover? The primary causes of a hangover are dehydration, the toxic effects of alcohol, and the body’s inflammatory response to alcohol consumption.

How can I rehydrate quickly when I have a hangover? Drinking plenty of water, as well as adding electrolyte-rich drinks like sports drinks or rehydration sachets, can help replenish lost fluids and minerals to alleviate dehydration.

Is it true that exercise can help “sweat out” a hangover? While exercise can be beneficial in moderation, it’s important to remember that it can also further dehydrate you and increase the risk of accidents due to impaired judgment and balance after heavy drinking.

Can vitamins and supplements cure a hangover? No, scientific research has not found any strong evidence that vitamins, minerals, or other supplements can effectively “cure” a hangover. The best approach is to focus on rehydration, nutrition, and allowing your body time to recover.

How long does a hangover typically last? The duration of a hangover can vary depending on factors like the amount of alcohol consumed, individual metabolism, and overall health. However, most hangovers will typically last between 12 and 24 hours, with the worst symptoms occurring in the first few hours after waking up.

Is it safe to drive the morning after a night of heavy drinking? No, it’s not safe to drive if you still have alcohol in your system or are experiencing any lingering effects of a hangover. The safest approach is to wait until you are completely sober and feel fully recovered before getting behind the wheel.

How can I prevent hangovers in the future? The best way to prevent hangovers is to drink in moderation, stay hydrated, and avoid binge drinking. Sticking to the UK Chief Medical Officers’ low-risk drinking guidelines, as well as pacing your alcohol consumption and alternating with water, can go a long way in reducing your risk of experiencing a hangover.