Quick ways to cure a hangover. 16 Science-Backed Hangover Cures: Quick Ways to Feel Better Fast
How can you cure a hangover quickly. What are the most effective science-based remedies for hangover symptoms. Which foods and drinks help alleviate hangovers fastest. How do painkillers and supplements impact hangover recovery.
Hydration: The Key to Hangover Relief
Proper hydration is crucial for alleviating hangover symptoms. Alcohol acts as a diuretic, causing increased urination and dehydration. This dehydration contributes significantly to common hangover symptoms like headaches, dry mouth, and fatigue.
Water: Your First Line of Defense
Drinking plenty of water is one of the most effective ways to combat a hangover. How much water should you drink? Aim for at least 8 glasses throughout the day following heavy drinking. Placing a large glass of water by your bed before going out can remind you to hydrate when you return home.
Electrolyte-Rich Beverages
While water is essential, electrolyte-rich drinks can provide additional benefits. Do sports drinks help with hangovers? Yes, they can be beneficial as they replenish not only fluids but also essential minerals lost through increased urination.
- Coconut water
- Pedialyte
- Homemade electrolyte solutions
Strategic Food Choices for Hangover Recovery
The right foods can play a significant role in easing hangover symptoms and speeding up recovery. While greasy foods are often craved, they may not be the best choice for a delicate stomach.
Gentle, Nutrient-Rich Options
Opting for easily digestible, nutrient-dense foods can help restore blood sugar levels and provide essential vitamins and minerals.
- Bananas: Rich in potassium, which is often depleted by alcohol
- Toast or crackers: Easy on the stomach and help absorb excess stomach acid
- Eggs: Contain cysteine, which may help break down toxins
- Vegetable broth: Hydrating and gentle on the digestive system
The Porridge Solution
Porridge is an excellent hangover food choice. Why is porridge beneficial for hangovers? It’s easy to digest, provides complex carbohydrates for sustained energy, and can be customized with various toppings to add extra nutrients.
Painkillers and Supplements: A Cautious Approach
Over-the-counter medications and supplements can offer relief from hangover symptoms, but it’s important to choose wisely and use them cautiously.
Paracetamol vs. Ibuprofen
Both paracetamol and ibuprofen can help alleviate hangover headaches, but which is better? Paracetamol is generally considered safer for the stomach, while ibuprofen may be more effective for inflammation. However, it’s crucial to avoid aspirin, as it can irritate the stomach lining.
Milk Thistle: A Controversial Remedy
Milk thistle has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for liver health. Does milk thistle actually help with hangovers? The evidence is mixed. While some studies suggest it may support liver function, others show no significant benefits for hangover relief.
The Science Behind Fizzy Drinks
Carbonated beverages are often reached for during a hangover, but do they actually help? A Chinese study examining 57 different drinks found some surprising results.
Sprite: An Unexpected Hangover Helper
According to the study, Sprite was one of the most effective beverages for speeding up alcohol metabolism. How does Sprite help with hangovers? It’s believed that the combination of sugar and citrus flavors may help the body process alcohol more quickly, potentially reducing the duration of hangover symptoms.
The Pros and Cons of Sugary Drinks
While sugary drinks like Sprite may provide a quick energy boost, they’re not without drawbacks. The rapid rise and fall in blood sugar can leave you feeling worse later. A better alternative might be sparkling water with a squeeze of fresh lemon, which provides hydration and gentle flavor without the sugar crash.
Natural Remedies and Herbal Approaches
Many people turn to natural remedies and herbs to alleviate hangover symptoms. While scientific evidence for some of these approaches is limited, anecdotal reports suggest potential benefits.
Ginger: Nature’s Nausea Fighter
Ginger has long been used to combat nausea and digestive discomfort. Can ginger help with hangover-related nausea? Many find that ginger tea or ginger supplements can help settle an upset stomach and reduce feelings of queasiness associated with hangovers.
Prickly Pear Extract
Some studies have shown that prickly pear extract may help reduce hangover symptoms. How does prickly pear work for hangovers? It’s believed to help by reducing inflammation in the body, potentially easing headaches and nausea.
The Role of Sleep in Hangover Recovery
Adequate sleep is crucial for allowing the body to recover from the effects of alcohol. However, alcohol can disrupt sleep patterns, making quality rest challenging.
Creating an Optimal Sleep Environment
To maximize sleep quality during a hangover:
- Keep the room dark and cool
- Use earplugs or white noise to block out disturbances
- Avoid screens before bed to promote better sleep
The Power of Naps
Short naps during the day can help alleviate fatigue associated with hangovers. What’s the ideal nap duration for hangover recovery? Aim for 20-30 minutes to avoid entering deep sleep, which can leave you feeling groggy.
Exercise: Friend or Foe to Hangover Relief?
The idea of exercising with a hangover might seem daunting, but some light physical activity can actually be beneficial for recovery.
Gentle Movement
Engaging in light exercise can help boost circulation and release endorphins, potentially improving mood and reducing headache intensity. What types of exercise are suitable for hangover recovery?
- Yoga
- Slow walking
- Gentle stretching
The Importance of Listening to Your Body
While some movement can be helpful, it’s crucial to avoid overexertion. Intense exercise can further dehydrate the body and exacerbate hangover symptoms. Always prioritize hydration and rest if you choose to incorporate exercise into your hangover recovery routine.
Prevention: The Best Cure
While these remedies can help alleviate hangover symptoms, the most effective approach is prevention. Understanding how to drink responsibly can significantly reduce the likelihood and severity of hangovers.
Pacing and Hydration
Alternating alcoholic drinks with water or other non-alcoholic beverages can help maintain hydration and slow alcohol consumption. How many non-alcoholic drinks should you have between alcoholic ones? Aim for at least one glass of water for every alcoholic beverage consumed.
Choosing Your Drinks Wisely
Some types of alcohol are associated with more severe hangovers than others. Which alcoholic beverages are least likely to cause hangovers?
- Clear spirits like vodka and gin tend to cause fewer hangover symptoms
- Avoid drinks high in congeners, such as whiskey and red wine, which can worsen hangovers
- Opt for lower alcohol content options when possible
By implementing these preventive measures and having a strategy for recovery, you can minimize the impact of alcohol on your body and enjoy social drinking more responsibly.
Remember, while these remedies and tips can help alleviate hangover symptoms, the most effective way to avoid a hangover is to drink in moderation or abstain from alcohol altogether. If you find yourself frequently experiencing severe hangovers or struggling with alcohol consumption, it’s important to speak with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and support.
Hangovers can be a miserable experience, but with the right approach, you can minimize their impact and recover more quickly. By focusing on hydration, nutrition, rest, and gentle self-care, you can help your body bounce back from the effects of alcohol more efficiently. Always listen to your body and don’t hesitate to seek medical attention if hangover symptoms are severe or persistent.
As research in this area continues, new insights and strategies for hangover prevention and treatment may emerge. Staying informed about the latest findings can help you make better decisions about alcohol consumption and recovery. Remember, the goal is not just to treat hangovers, but to develop a healthier relationship with alcohol that prioritizes your overall well-being.
Ultimately, the best approach to hangovers is a holistic one that combines preventive measures with targeted recovery strategies. By understanding how alcohol affects your body and having a plan in place for those occasions when you do indulge, you can minimize the negative impacts and enjoy social drinking more responsibly.
Whether you’re dealing with an occasional hangover or looking to make long-term changes to your drinking habits, these science-backed strategies provide a solid foundation for managing alcohol’s effects on your body. As with any health-related concern, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice, especially if you have underlying health conditions or take medications that may interact with alcohol.
By arming yourself with knowledge and practical strategies, you can navigate the world of social drinking more confidently, knowing that you have effective tools at your disposal to mitigate the unpleasant aftereffects of alcohol consumption. Remember, moderation is key, and there’s no shame in choosing non-alcoholic alternatives or abstaining altogether if that’s what’s best for your health and well-being.
As you apply these hangover remedies and prevention strategies, pay attention to what works best for your body. Everyone’s physiology is different, and what works well for one person may not be as effective for another. Over time, you’ll likely develop a personalized approach that combines various methods to help you feel your best, even after a night of indulgence.
Lastly, it’s worth considering the broader context of your drinking habits. If you find yourself frequently needing to employ hangover cures, it might be time to reflect on your relationship with alcohol and consider making changes to promote better overall health. Remember, the occasional hangover is one thing, but frequent, severe hangovers can be a sign of more serious health concerns and should be addressed with the help of a healthcare professional.
By taking a proactive, informed approach to alcohol consumption and hangover management, you can enjoy social occasions while minimizing the negative impacts on your health and well-being. With these science-backed strategies in your toolkit, you’re well-equipped to handle the morning after with greater ease and get back to feeling your best more quickly.
How to cure a bad hangover – fast and quick cures from best foods to science-approved tricks
Partied too hard last night? Don’t worry, we’ve got your back.
Your liver is screaming at you, your head is banging – you’re a quivering wreck.
Whether it’s a greasy fry-up or pint of water we all have our remedies to shaking off that hangover, but what’s the best cure?
There’s plenty of options, from the traditional home cures to science approved tricks.
Here’s how to cure a hangover next time you find yourself shaking the morning after.
1. Drink lots of water
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We’re starting with an obvious one, but it’s also the best.
Drinking alcohol stops the body from creating a chemical called vasopressin, which means your kidneys send water straight to your bladder instead of absorbing into the body.
It’s also behind the reason for needing to go to the toilet so many times while you’re actually drinking.
This also leads to dehydration, as the body can expel up to four times as much water, and is probably why you’ve got that thumping headache and dry mouth.
The best solution is to put a nice big pint of water (or two) beside your bed before you head out. That way you’ll remember to drink it when you get in.
Make sure you keep drinking plenty of water when you wake up the next morning too.
We’re supposed to drink eight glasses a day anyway so that should give you some idea.
How much water should you drink in a day? The easy wee test to tell if you’re drinking enough
2. Drink a can of fizzy drink
A can of sprite might be just what you need
A Chinese study looking at 57 different beverages found that the lemon and lime pop helped process the alcohol out of your system quicker, speeding your recovery.
Sprite was among the drinks that sped up this process the most, causing the alcohol to be broken down faster, therefore reducing the duration of a hangover.
Jane Scrivner, author of The Quick-Fix Hangover Detox: 99 Ways To Feel 100 Times Better, said: “It has a high water content to rehydrate you and is high in sugar for an instant pick-me-up, yet the simple sugars mean you’re likely to soon come crashing back down.
“But its lemon and lime juice content is alkaline and will help balance the acid in your gut, quelling feelings of nausea.
“Fizzy water with a squeeze of fresh lemon is a better option.”
3. Painkillers
Paracetamol can help
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It’s another obvious choice – especially when you wake up with that feeling like your head’s in a vice – but the NHS actually recommends taking painkillers.
It says that buying over-the-counter pills can help with headaches and muscle cramps but avoid aspirin as it can further irritate the stomach and increase feelings of sickness.
Instead, opt for a paracetamol-based remedy or ibuprofen lysine, which absorbs quicker and one with codeine (found in ‘plus’ brands) is like taking two painkillers at once, experts say.
4. Eat up
Cooked breakfast with toast and cereal
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There’s always an urge to reach for big, greasy plate of food in the morning to help cure that hangover and it is an option that can work for many people.
The fat in your fry-up contains lots of calories, so you’ll get an energy boost, while eggs and meat are rich in the amino acid cysteine, which is thought to be good at clearing out toxins.
However, experts actually recommend that a bland breakfast can help restore blood sugar levels and without causing anymore stomach problems.
Crackers, toast or a thin vegetable-based broth are some of the options put forward by the NHS.
Alcohol can also deplete your potassium levels so eating a banana or two will actually make you feel a lot better.
What to eat for a hangover – the best food and drink to ease the pain
5. Disolvable tablets
Popping one of these disolvable tablets in a glass of water is a great way of replacing nutrients lost through alcohol.
They contain vitamin C, B vitamins as well as calcium and magnesium.
There also a great way of downing some water if you’re not keen on the taste and come in a variety of flavours – but make sure you’ve stocked up because most chemists will be closed on New Year’s Day.
6. Milk Thistle
The Romans used it to treat sick children and snakebites.
Milk thistle contains silymarin – which is recommended for liver disorders. However, experts are divided. Some suggest it can help treat liver disease caused by alcohol abuse. But other studies show it has no benefits to improving liver function.
7. Porridge
Although Rhiannon Lambert, a Registered Nutritionist and founder of leading Harley Street clinic Rhitrition isn’t a big drinker, she has a recipe up her sleeve for those occasions when she does indulge.
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“With hydration being a cornerstone of health living, I always remind myself to drink far more water on the day after drinking that I would normally so it could easily be over 2 litres.
“On the menu would be a refreshing smoothie bowl or a filling porridge with nut butter and berries.”
8. Guacamole on toast
Avocado was always going to be on this list in some shape or form.
Manal Chouchane, Clinical Nutritionist at BioCare has a craving-busting recipe for those mornings when you feel like your brain keeps hitting the side of your skull.
“Guacamole on toast and coconut water,” she says.
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“This would satisfy our cravings for high carbohydrate and fat foods when we are hungover, yet still providing good quality fats for nourishing our bodies.
“Coconut water is ideal for hydration and providing electrolyte balance.”
How to prevent a hangover?
- Consume sugar while drinking
- Drink water as well as alcohol
- Drink at least a pint or water before you got to bed
- Grease up before you go
Eat ginger
Weird hangover cures around the world
Lemon
Puerto Ricans reportedly believe that rubbing a lemon into your armpit whilst drinking could prevent the next morning becoming a nightmare.
And it makes you smell nice, which is probably the only scientifically proven part of this remedy.
Lemons are a good addition to your diet
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Raw egg
A classic hangover cure called a Prairie Oyster involves mixing an egg yolk with Worcestershire sauce as well as salt and pepper.
This should then be swallowed whole, taking care not to break the egg.
Raw egg may not sound tasty but people swore by it
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However, this cure is not recommended for pregnant women – or anyone else for that matter.
Sparrow droppings in Brandy
After drinking many of us swear never to touch a drop of alcohol again, but this old Hungarian cure is an extreme hair of the dog.
Some say if you get a sparrow to do its business in a brandy glass, swill it around and knock it back, you’ll be right as rain.
Probably one to avoid though – not only does it sound grim but we’re not sure how hygienic it would be.
Brandy with an er, unusual ingredient
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Sheep’s Brain
Again not one for the faint-hearted, but apparently sheep brain could help when your own feels scrambled.
In South Africa a traditional hangover cure is to melt a sheep’s stomach walls in a pot with witblits moonshine, Umqombothi beer or any of the country’s famed wines.
Deep fried canary
Ancient Romans might have been ahead of their time when it came to munching on deep fried goodies as a hangover cure.
They used to believe eating a deep fried canary would help ease your stomach.
Dried bull penis
Italians are the brains behind another quirky hangover cure.
An old Sicilian belief is that nibbling a bull’s private parts can help the morning after the night before – but their golden rule was it had to be cut and dried first.
Raw eels and almonds
A handful of almonds can help fight many diseases
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Warning: Do not try this cure as it could be your last Christmas.
The Medieval idea was to encourage sore-headed drinkers to munch bitter almonds and raw eels.
Not surprisingly its popularity has worn off over the years.
The Prairie Oyster
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This 19th century “hangover cure” is a cocktail of tomato juice, a whole raw egg, Worcestershire sauce, red wine vinegar and a dash of Tabasco sauce.
It replenishes the water, salts and electrolytes that alcohol has depleted.
In processing booze, the body also creates other toxic chemicals.
By introducing new toxins into your body, such as capsaicin in Tabasco sauce, your body temporarily turns away from alcohol processing, delaying or eliminating a lot of your symptoms.
Pickle juice
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Hold your nose and down this is a widely accepted hangover cure. The vinegar, water and sodium combo is the ultimate pick-me-up, combating dehydration and boosting energy. It’s worth adding honey to sweeten it.
Science approved hangovers
RU-21
Created by the KGB just after the Second World War, this secret drug was designed to keep agents sober so that they could outdrink their opponents before helping themselves to their secrets.
It didn’t stop them from getting drunk but it did block the toxic chemical acetaldehyde, which damages tissues and leads to hangovers.
RU-21 was popular among hell-raising Hollywood stars a decade or so ago, as it allowed them to party while appearing fresh-faced on set the next morning.
It’s not just for celebs though – you can 120 RU-21 pills for under £20 online.
Ethane-beta-sultam
A recently-developed drug, and the product of a decade of work by British, Belgian and Italian scientists.
They reckon that it will reduce the harmful effects on the brain caused by binge drinking – perfect for the post-Christmas party comedown.
If you’re worried that it won’t work, don’t be – it’s been tested on drunken rats.
And you’re bound to encounter one or two of those during your festive bash.
How to get rid of your headache or migraine in just TWO minutes using this very unusual method
Drinkwel
A vitamin supplement that is chock full of natural ingredients and vegetarian-friendly (which presumably means no essence of bacon).
You can get a 30-day batch for £30 but you have to take three pills a day, which is a bit of a commitment – and tricky to keep up with if you’re planning to be drunk a lot of the time.
The reviews are almost unanimously positive though, so this could be the miracle hangover cure you’ve waited your whole life for.
Intravenous drips
Intravenous drips provide a quick way to administer fluids when you are feeling unwell.
Traditionally they’ve only been offered to sick people in hospital or LA health freaks, but since October they’ve become available in the UK, thanks to a clinic called Reviv, which promises to sort you out within 10 minutes.
In addition to fluids, the IV drip contains a cocktail of drugs for pain-relief and stomach settling.
Best Home Remedies For Hangover
Table of Contents
1
Introduction:
Partied too hard and not feeling like you can drag yourself out of bed? We have all heard of that hungover friend or experienced hangovers after a night of drinking too much. Drinking too much the night before can make you feel haggard when you wake up.
A hangover is that unpleasant feeling you wake up with after drinking excessive alcohol. It begins several hours after you stop drinking. The symptoms vary from person to person and depend on the type and amount of alcohol you had. A hangover usually gets better on its own within a day.1 It is important to note that there is no quick cure to manage hangovers; the body requires plenty of time to get rid itself of the hangover.2
If you feel hungover, you can try simple home remedies mentioned below to get some relief from the
What Causes Hangover?
Drinking heavily is the primary cause of hangovers, but several factors can contribute to how bad the symptoms are.
Dehydration
Alcohol makes you urinate frequently, leading to the loss of fluids. Headache, thirst and fatigue are common symptoms that occur as a result of dehydration. 2
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Sleep Disturbance
The sleep you get after drinking heavily is fragmented and short. As a result, people often wake up tired and exhausted and face a loss of productivity.2
Inflammation
Heavy drinking can cause inflammation making you feel uncomfortable when you are hungover and sick.2
Mini-withdrawal
The brains of people who drink quickly adjust to the calm and euphoric effects of alcohol. When the alcohol wears off, you tend to feel more restless and anxious.2
Digestive Tract Irritation
Alcohol irritates the lining of the stomach, triggering the production of acids. Excessive acid in the stomach gives the feeling of nausea and discomfort.2
Exposure to Acetaldehyde
When the alcohol in the body gets metabolised by the liver, it is converted to a chemical called acetaldehyde. Acetaldehyde is a toxic compound, which causes inflammation in organs such as the brain, liver, pancreas and digestive tract.2
Also Read: Natural Home Remedies for Fatty Liver
Symptoms of Hangover:
The major symptoms associated with a hangover are:
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- Vomiting, pain in the stomach and nausea
- Sleep disturbance
- Weakness and fatigue
- Muscle pain
- Thirst
- Sweating
- Tremors
- Anxiety, depression and irritability
- Dizziness
- Vertigo (loss of balance)
- High pulse rate, increased blood pressure
- Sensitivity to sound and light
- Red eyes and headache1
Also Read: Simple Home Remedies for Frequent Urination
Suggested Home Remedies for Hangover:
There is no magical cure to get rid of hangovers; give your body enough time to recover from the toxic effects of alcohol. 2 Meanwhile, you can try these home remedies to manage the symptoms and aid in your recovery.
1. Drink Fluids
Drinking alcohol promotes urination in people, leading to the loss of fluids from the body. If you also experience sweating, diarrhoea and vomiting, your body might become dehydrated. To recover from the loss of fluids, try drinking plenty of water when you wake up.3
2. Eat Carbohydrates
Drinking alcohol can lower blood sugar levels, which results in fatigue and headache. People often forget to eat something while on the drinking binge. This causes a further decrease in blood sugar levels. Getting some carbohydrates in your system can help with the symptoms of a hangover. You can try bland foods with carbohydrates, for example, toast and crackers. It will help to minimise nausea and enhance blood sugar levels.1,3
3. Drinking Tea or Coffee
The caffeine present in coffee and tea acts as a stimulant. It can help with the grogginess that accompanies hangovers.3 Brew your favourite tea or coffee when you wake up. This way, you can sip on some tea or coffee to relieve the feeling like you just came back from war.
4. Get Rest
You need to get plenty of rest to recover from the hangover. The effects of alcohol can interfere with your ability to perform tasks even if you feel good the next morning. Try getting as much sleep as possible to counteract fatigue.1,4
5. Ginseng
Ginseng can help you to remove alcohol faster from the body as it enhances alcohol metabolism. That’s how it is beneficial in relieving hangover symptoms. Ginseng might also be effective in alcohol toxicity and acts as an anti-hangover agent.5 There are several ways to use ginseng. For example, you can boil some fresh ginseng with water to make a tea to sip on. You can also add ginseng to your foods and dishes.
6. Ginger
Ginger is a natural anti-oxidant making it a natural remedy to get rid of the toxicity of alcohol. Ginger might also effectively relieve hangover symptoms such as diarrhoea, nausea and vomiting and reduce the discomfort associated with a hangover.5 You can sip on some fresh ginger tea to help with hangover symptoms.
7. Be Patient
You need at least 24 hours to get rid of all the symptoms of a hangover. Your body needs time to clear out all the toxic by-products of alcohol present in the system, get plenty of hydration, heal the liver and restore the activities and functions of the body to normal.1
Also Read: Natural Home Remedies for Anxiety
Other Home Remedies
- You can drink sports drinks; these drinks are rich in electrolytes. It will help in making up for the loss of salts and potassium because of drinking alcohol.4
- Fruit juices and honey have also been recommended to get rid of hangovers. 4
Remedies to Avoid
- You should avoid any medicine that contains acetaminophen. Acetaminophen, when combined with alcohol, can cause damage to the liver.4
- Its often thought that drinking some more alcohol can help you overcome a hangover. Avoid drinking alcohol to get rid of hangovers. It will not relieve the symptoms, instead contribute to more alcohol toxicity.1
Also Read: Home Remedies To Cure Bad Breath Naturally
When to Seek Medical Help?
Hangovers leave on their own even if you do not do anything. Your body will start to feel better with time. You should consult with your healthcare provider, if you experience signs of alcohol abuse:
- You are drinking heavily frequently
- Experience severe alcohol withdrawal symptoms
- Drinking and hangovers affect the quality of life, relationships and work.1
Conclusion:
Hangovers can be bothersome and sometimes, painful too. There are many home remedies claiming to magically cure hangovers. Still, the best course of action for you is to be patient and rest, allowing your body to get rid of all the toxic by-products from its system. Drinking plenty of water and eating food rich in carbohydrates are some basic ways that help to aid recovery. Hangovers typically do not require any medical intervention. However, if you notice signs of an alcohol use disorder, heavy drinking within a short period, severe withdrawal symptoms or frequent hangovers that affect your quality of life, you need to consult your healthcare provider immediately.
Also Read: Home Remedies For Vomiting
Frequently Asked Questions:
What are the home remedies for managing hangovers?
The best thing you can do is get rest and hydrate your body. You can also try eating some crackers and toast to raise blood sugar levels. Drinking a caffeinated drink, for example, tea or coffee, can help you fight off the grogginess of hangovers. You can use ginger and ginseng to help improve your symptoms.1,3–5
Can I take medicine after drinking alcohol to avoid a hangover?
You need to exercise caution when using medicine before or after consuming alcohol. Taking any medicine that contains acetaminophen while there is alcohol in your system can cause liver toxicity. Pain relievers like ibuprofen can irritate the stomach lining.2 It is best to avoid any medicine straight after consuming alcohol.
Is it safe to have a drink to cure hangovers?
Having yet another drink to cure hangovers should be avoided. This practice is known as the hair of the dog, which means taking the hair of the dog that bit you. Drinking alcohol to cure hangovers will only increase alcohol toxicity in the body.1,3
How much time does it take to cure a hangover?
Hangover symptoms usually subside after a day (24 hours) on their own. The symptoms improve as soon as the alcohol leaves your system.1
How can I prevent a hangover?
There is a way to enjoy drinking without worrying about the unpleasant symptoms of a hangover. You can avoid drinking alcohol on an empty stomach. You can drink moderate quantities to prevent hangovers. You can also keep sipping on water in between your drinks to help you reduce the consumption of alcohol and keep yourself hydrated. Drink slowly and choose light-coloured alcoholic beverages. Light-coloured beverages such as light beer, vodka, white wine and gin result in less severe hangover symptoms.1
What is alcohol poisoning?
Alcohol poisoning is a severe side effect of heavy drinking. Alcohol poisoning can be life-threatening. If you notice signs in anyone who has been drinking, contact your nearest healthcare provider immediately. Symptoms of alcohol poisoning include seizures, vomiting, confusion, unconsciousness, slow or irregular breathing, pale skin and low body temperature. 6
References:
1. Cleveland Clinic [Internet]. Hangover; 2020 Sept 24 [cited 2022 May 23]. Available from: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/16627-hangover
2. National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) [Internet]. Hangovers; 2021 Mar 1 [cited 2022 May 23]. Available from: https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/brochures-and-fact-sheets/hangovers
3. Harvard Health [Internet]. 7 steps to cure your hangover; [cited 2022 May 23]. Available from: https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/7-steps-to-cure-your-hangover-and-ginkgo-biloba-whats-the-verdict
4. MedlinePlus [Internet]. Hangover treatment; 2022 Jan 6 [cited 2022 May 23]. Available from: https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002041.htm
5. Wang F, Li Y, Zhang YJ, Zhou Y, Li S, Li HB. Natural Products for the Prevention and Treatment of Hangover and Alcohol Use Disorder. Molecules. 2016 Jan ;21(1):64. Available from: https://www. mdpi.com/1420-3049/21/1/64/htm
6. Better Health Channel [Internet]. How alcohol affects your body; [cited 2022 May 23]. Available from: https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/how-alcohol-affects-your-body#alcohol-poisoning-emergency
Disclaimer: The information included at this site is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional. Because of unique individual needs, the reader should consult their physician to determine the appropriateness of the information for the reader’s situation.
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Hangover is a terrible condition. The person is sick, his head is splitting and his stomach hurts.
We have already talked about how you can effectively deal with a hangover at home. In the comments to the article, readers T—F shared their ways of dealing with this condition. They have no proven effectiveness, but you can always hope for a placebo effect.
These are the stories of readers from the S-Z Community. Collected into one material, carefully edited and formatted according to editorial standards.
Glass of ice water
In bars, I would order a glass of ice water when I felt I was getting drunk. It gave me energy, drowsiness went away, and I sobered up a little. The main thing is that the next morning the hangover did not torment me so much.
Once I was walking around the bars for about 18 hours. It was then that I discovered this little secret. He did not get very drunk and did not experience a strong hangover in the morning.
Community 03/23/21
How does beer affect the body and health?
Orange without zest
After a wild party, I eat a whole orange without zest. I want to note that the head stops hurting and in general you recover faster. I read somewhere that with a hangover you need to eat a handful of Revit vitamins. Probably, vitamin C contributes to the rapid elimination of alcohol toxins. But this is just my guess.
Vitamins: what foods contain and how to take supplements
Fresh air and a liter of water before bed
I have three basic hangover rules:
- I don’t go to bed drunk. It’s better to hold out a little and sober up a little.
- I try to drink a liter of water about an hour before bedtime. Of course, not all at once, but intermittently.
- I leave the window open if possible. Fresh air helps a lot.
I have been following these simple rules for two years now and have never had a hangover. Although before that he often suffered.
Activated charcoal and aspirin
Before drinking alcohol, I take one tablet of activated charcoal per 10 kg of weight and 200-250 mg of aspirin in order not to feel bad in the morning. In the morning I feel relatively well. Of course, the amount of alcohol you drink also has an effect. It is worth knowing your limits.
Community 11/14/22
Is it possible to combine antibiotics and alcohol?
Shower, diet and herbal tea0003
- Rinse the stomach and intestines.
- Take a contrast shower.
- Brew and drink herbal tea with mint throughout the day, it helps to cope with nausea.
- Follow a diet for one or two days: eat only foods that do not burden the liver and do not injure the stomach. For example, semolina porridge on water, mashed potatoes, vegetable or chicken broth.
- Take a headache pill and sleep.
Green tea with milk and salt
Anonymous
uses traditional Tuvan cuisine
I take the most budgetary leafy green tea. Best suited pressed in briquettes. The one that most people in the store just walk past. I break off a piece from the briquette to taste and throw it into boiling milk. Cook for a few minutes, then add a little salt. The drink should be only salty, strong brine does not need to be made. Then I pour it into a mug and drink it like regular tea.
If you are too lazy to cook all this because of a hangover, there is a soluble version in bags – “Khan-tea”. You just need to fill it with boiling water.
folk and pharmacy remedies, life hacks
Sometimes common sense loses and then in the morning you get a terrible hangover. However, it can torment even after a moderate dose of alcohol. Now the task is to start the metabolism and speed up the elimination of toxins. We offer a conversation on a hot topic for those who like parties and spontaneous meetings over a glass of prosecco. We share life hacks on how to quickly remove alcohol from the body and normalize your well-being.
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Arm yourself with useful life hacks in case the libations get out of control and you get really sick in the morning.
Contents of the article
Escape from the captivity of Dionysus is not so easy: very often the consequences of a feast are very deplorable even for a young and hardy organism. Nausea, vomiting, piercing headache, loss of appetite and tremors of the limbs – and this is not a complete list of hangover symptoms. Alas, even the most low-calorie alcoholic drinks, consumed without measure, can cause a strong deterioration in well-being in the morning.
Alcohol consumed in small doses is eliminated from the body naturally 6-8 hours after entering the digestive system. However, in case of an overdose or alcohol poisoning due to low-quality drinks or individual intolerance, the hangover may drag on. Therefore, additional measures must be taken to improve the condition. In this article, we quickly remove alcohol from the body at home.
How to quickly remove alcohol from the body at home and sober up
First of all, it is important to understand that the level of intoxication and the painful symptoms of a hangover are not always associated with the amount of alcohol consumed. The condition can be influenced by factors such as the quality of drinks, the general well-being of the drinker, individual indicators, the degree of satiety, the number of hours of sleep after drinking alcohol, and the work of internal organs.
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An unhealthy liver does a poor job of filtering toxins, which causes the retention of toxic substances in the body. Contrary to popular belief, heavy food is not the solution to the problem: fast food and other fatty foods load the liver even more, thereby slowing down the breakdown process. If you know what quickly removes alcohol from the body, you can try to help him get rid of a hangover. Treatments for intoxication are quite simple. They allow you to remove discomfort and recover.
Sleep
There is nothing better than getting enough sleep and thus quickly detoxifying alcohol from the body. It is advisable to go to bed on time and give yourself enough time to rest. A long sleep in a dark and well-ventilated room is a guarantee of cheerfulness even after a hard night.
Shower
Another thing that will help you get alcohol out of your body as quickly as possible is a contrast shower. It is suitable for those who are confident in the health of their cardiovascular system and are not afraid of cool water. Otherwise, you can do great harm to an already weakened body. If it’s really hard, but your health doesn’t allow you to take a contrast shower, at least try to wash yourself with cold water. This will refresh the face and neck, tone the skin and speed up the process of removing alcohol particles through the pores.
Sauna
The answer to the question of how to quickly remove the remnants of alcohol from the body can give an ancient method. If the hangover is mild or moderate, use it to restore sobriety. Go to the bath or sauna. Take a good steam so that active sweating begins and with it the natural removal of some of the alcohol to the outside. Only you must be sure that the heart and blood vessels will withstand the load. High temperatures will accelerate the process of decomposition of toxic substances, and open pores will “throw out” harmful particles faster. If it’s scary to bathe alone, take a non-drinking friend with you so that she can monitor your condition.
Fresh air
If you have been on vacation in a company in an institution or visited, but have not yet reached home, use a simple method. Since it is not possible to completely remove alcohol from the body now, take a walk in the fresh air. Of course, making sure of the safety of your promenade. The skin and lungs are active channels for the removal of toxins, which is why after drinking alcoholic beverages, an uncompromising “fume” often appears, and the body continues to exude a slight (or not very) smell of alcohol. At home, you can pay attention to the skin: massage or wiping with a hard towel will do the trick.
If you feel that you are getting sick, leave the stuffy room, or better yet, take a short health walk. When you need to get home from a party, a taxi ride can make you feel worse. If possible, it is better to walk. Everything plays a role here: both a combination of light physical activity to remove alcohol from the body as quickly as possible, and fresh air.
This combination will help bring blood circulation back to normal, especially if you remember the fast breathing technique. It is also called hyperventilation, when you breathe faster and deeper. So the elimination of alcohol from the body is accelerated, because when forcing a breath, a person loses a lot of carbon dioxide, with which alcohol leaves the body.
Which foods get alcohol out of your body faster
There is a small list of foods that will help you sober up faster. They are easy to order at a restaurant, buy at any supermarket or put in the fridge just in case. An anti-hangover diet will alleviate the unpleasant symptoms of a hangover.
Drinking water
The best ways to eliminate alcohol from the body quickly involve drinking fluids. Let’s start with clean water. Drinking plenty of water after drinking is vital. Now it is important not only to flush the digestive system, but also to catalyze the diuretic process in order to remove the remaining ethanol in a natural way.
Strong tea
With the help of tea, you can both get rid of a hangover and neutralize the chemical reactions caused by excess alcohol in the blood. The caffeine contained in it will throw antioxidants to the rescue, allowing you to recover faster. By the way, green tea has about ten times more antioxidants than black tea.
Milk
If a person is not allergic, alcohol can be eliminated from the body with milk. More precisely, the product will make it possible to reduce its harmful effects to the use of strong drinks. Milk forms a protective film on the gastric mucosa, slowing down the absorption of ethanol. So it is recommended to use it before drinking if there is no lactose intolerance.
Fruits
Citrus fruits, sour berries and green apples are foods that quickly remove alcohol from the body. They will facilitate the work of the liver and help restore the digestive system. Berries and fruits can be added to porridge or eaten raw.
Foods rich in potassium
In order to improve the functioning of the kidneys and heart, it is necessary to feed the body with potassium. Dates, parsley, bananas and potatoes will do the trick.
Brine
How useful are sometimes folk remedies that allow you to quickly remove alcohol from the body – be it beer or something stronger! A glass of cabbage or cucumber pickle will help restore the water-salt balance of the body. Although the most common is cucumber pickle, it is cabbage pickle that actually relieves the consequences of alcohol abuse more effectively. It contains the same succinic acid, which is part of pharmaceutical preparations for a hangover.
Sour-milk drinks
Kefir, tan, ayran, koumiss and other sour-milk drinks normalize the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract, supply the body with vitamins and protein, remove harmful products of alcohol breakdown. To quickly recover from a hangover, it is best to drink a sour-milk drink on an empty stomach in a volume of no more than 600 milliliters.
Honey
Our list includes a fragrant and tasty product that quickly removes alcohol from the body. And natural honey got into it absolutely deservedly. It contains a valuable cocktail of minerals, including magnesium and potassium, which help strengthen the heart muscle and balance the nervous system. In addition, honey accelerates the elimination of toxins. A cup of green or herbal tea with a spoonful of honey is a great hangover drink. And toasts with honey will be a great breakfast the morning after the party. However, remember that in one sitting it is better to eat no more than two tablespoons.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes and their juice contain potassium, which normalizes heart palpitations – one of the symptoms of a hangover. And the antioxidant lycopene and vitamin C have a positive effect on metabolism and liver function. Arrange the elimination of alcohol from the body with a snack of fresh tomatoes and, for example, chicken breast. It is also a great option for maintaining harmony!
Eggs
Cysteine in chicken eggs promotes the rapid elimination of ethanol metabolic products. Eggs also provide the body with protein, which will restore energy levels and slow down the absorption of alcohol into the blood.
Bananas
This nutritious product is a source of fast carbohydrates, which means it supplies energy that is so lacking in the morning after a feast. Potassium in the fruit restores the work of the heart muscle and eliminates arrhythmia. As soon as you eat a couple of bananas, the chances of moving away from a hangover quickly increase significantly.
Spinach
This healthy green contains vitamin B9, which is extremely beneficial for the nervous system – it relieves tension and irritability. 100 grams of spinach fill the body’s daily need for this substance.
Broth
With the help of chicken broth, we not only quickly restore strength after an illness, but also remove alcohol from the body at home. It helps to correct the situation after alcohol abuse, as it contains cysteine, which is useful for liver function and reduces headaches.
Almonds
Record holder among nuts for the content of magnesium, a mineral that is washed out of the body as a result of drinking alcohol. Increasing the level of magnesium helps to get rid of the vegetative manifestations of a hangover, normalizes the heartbeat, eliminates the feeling of weakness and apathy. 100 grams of almonds contain 67% of the daily requirement of magnesium. If the hangover is not too severe, with them you may not even need pills that quickly remove alcohol from the body.
Two ways to quickly remove alcohol from a woman’s body
Sometimes girls want to have fun or, on the contrary, are upset that they do not calculate their strength and drink too much. The insidiousness of the situation lies in the fact that alcohol has a more destructive effect on the female body, which means that the hangover is stronger. To start removing alcohol from the body, sometimes drastic measures are needed.
Vomiting + activated charcoal
In the case of a severe hangover, you can try to induce vomiting with plenty of water and a pinch of potassium permanganate. After the vomiting session is completed, drink a medicine that will help remove alcohol from the body quickly – 5-6 tablets of activated charcoal. It quickly absorbs waste and toxins. By the way, white pharmacy charcoal is more effective than classic black charcoal and does not stain your teeth.
Sex
Funny but true. As soon as you went over the day before, try to restore the body after alcohol with the help of sex. It plays an important role in the process of sobering up and establishing metabolic processes. It is no secret that very often it is in a hangover that libido increases, which you should definitely use for health purposes.
How to quickly remove the smell of alcohol from the body
The smell of fumes occurs 60-90 minutes after the ingestion of alcoholic beverages. Not only the oral cavity, but also the pores on the human body exude the smell of alcohol. Note: the fume can last from several hours to days if the necessary measures are not taken in time. So the removal of alcohol from the body should be mixed with the elimination of persistent amber.
- Brush your teeth with mint paste and use mouthwash.
- Tea with lemon, porridge with cinnamon and other spices will help remove the smell of alcohol. But coffee, on the contrary, in some cases can aggravate the situation!
- Fresh fruits, citrus peels and protein-rich foods help eliminate alcohol odor.
- Enveloping foods will freshen your breath: cream soups, boiled cereals and mashed potatoes are the best food for those who have overcome a hangover in addition to alcohol.
- Use aromatic shower gel and natural body oils after washing: rose, lavender, coconut oil will not only nourish dehydrated skin, but also give the body a light fragrance.
- Special anti-hangover preparations will help to quickly remove the smell of alcohol from the body. Such pills contain unithiol and succinic acid, which affect metabolism and get rid of alcohol decay products.
Does coffee help with a hangover
If you are looking for a remedy that quickly removes alcohol from the body, coffee is definitely not your assistant. Many resort to a fragrant cup as a source of vigor after libations. Yes, for a short time caffeine helps to feel in good shape. But it does not affect the process of removing ethanol. In addition, the drink aggravates the dehydration that already accompanies a hangover, which can adversely affect your condition. Another argument against drinking coffee with a hangover is that in this state, the drink causes heart palpitations. Instead of coffee, it is better to drink tea with lemon, which partially compensates for the loss of fluid and vitamins.
How to quickly remove alcohol from the body with succinic acid
Medications with succinic acid relieve hangover symptoms. Let’s figure out how to take them correctly.
The principle of action of succinic acid against a hangover
Poor health after drinking alcohol is caused by the presence in the body of acetaldehyde, a product of the breakdown of ethanol. The liver is involved in the processing of this substance, and succinic acid allows you to speed up this process and remove alcohol from the body.
Succinic acid preparations have a number of the following beneficial properties:
- stimulate metabolism
- remove toxins
- serve as an excellent antioxidant
- improve oxygen supply to cells, including brain and liver cells
- strengthen immunity
900 37 stimulate the production of serotonin, invigorate and improve mood
But do not forget that drugs that quickly remove alcohol from the body, which include succinic acid, also have side effects. They can manifest as stomach pain or high blood pressure. Therefore, be sure to study the list of contraindications to taking the drug and continue to monitor your well-being.
How to take succinic acid for a hangover
Tablets that help to quickly remove alcohol from the body work best in advance. A remedy based on succinic acid works especially well if taken before libations. Optimal dosage: 1-2 tablets approximately 40 minutes before the meal. About 6 tablets of medicine (600 mg) taken in the morning will help alleviate an already onset hangover.
The sobering effect will come on gradually if, after waking up, you need to dissolve 1 tablet (100 mg) and then take one tablet every hour – no more than six pills a day. Since the medicine can irritate the walls of the stomach, it is better not to swallow the tablets whole, but to put them under the tongue 10-15 minutes before a meal or 2 hours after.
Preparations that quickly remove alcohol from the body
You can quickly get rid of alcohol in the body with the help of enterosorbent preparations. They help remove some of the toxic substances by absorbing them in the intestines.