Hangover 101: How to Alleviate Common Symptoms
After a fun night of imbibing in your favorite alcoholic beverages, chances are you may be experiencing a hangover the next day. Hangovers are a collection of symptoms such as headaches, nausea, fatigue, dehydration, and sometimes even vomiting. We’ve all been there, and it is not a pleasant experience. It’s always a great idea to know what to do to help your body recover when it is experiencing a hangover.
Drink Plenty of Water
One of the essential things to do during a hangover is to drink plenty of water. Alcohol dehydrates the body, and symptoms such as headaches, dry mouth, and fatigue are your body’s way of letting you know that you are dehydrated. Rehydration is one of the most effective ways of alleviating these symptoms; this one is an absolute no-brainer. Make it a habit to drink a lot of water the night before you go to sleep and in the morning, you wake up with no dehydration issues.
Additionally, you can incorporate other fluids apart from water to replenish your body. For instance, drinks like coconut water, sports drinks, and mini Emergen-C packets are great sources of electrolytes that can help you recover quickly.
Have a Nutritious Meal
While you may not feel like eating much, having a nutritious meal can be a lifesaver during a hangover. Foods that are high in vitamins and minerals, such as fruits, vegetables, soup, and whole grains, can help regulate your blood sugar levels and subsequently combat feelings of nausea and fatigue. If you find it challenging to stomach solid foods, try drinking smoothies or having a protein shake.
Avoid eating large quantities of sugary or fatty foods as they can worsen symptoms. Caffeine should also be limited as it can dehydrate you further, which you certainly don’t need when you’re already dehydrated.
Rest
Allowing your body to rest and recover is crucial for fighting a hangover. It’s no secret that when our body is deprived of sleep, it doesn’t function effectively. When you are well-rested, your body can produce endorphins, the body’s natural “feel good” mood boosters, more efficiently, reducing the occurrence of headaches and related symptoms. If possible, aim for 7-9 hours of sleep a night, quality sleep is vital for making you feel recharged the next day.
If you’re unable to sleep, reduce stimulation by dimming the lights, using earplugs, or listening to calming music or guided meditation. Taking a nap can also help refresh and rejuvenate your body.
Try Some Exercise
Moving your body can help alleviate some of the symptoms of a hangover. Exercise stimulates endorphin production, which boosts your mood and helps diminish pain, among other things. Taking a leisurely walk, going on a bike ride, or even doing some gentle yoga can be beneficial for you. It’s important to avoid high-intensity workouts as these can dehydrate you further.
Exercising can be tough if you’re already feeling unwell, so start slow and listen to your body. If you feel dizzy, nauseous, or any other symptoms, stop, take a break, and reach out to your friends or family for help.
Try an OTC Remedy
Over-the-counter remedies can be useful in alleviating hangover symptoms. Pain relievers such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen can help ease headaches, while antacids can help calm your stomach. However, be cautious when using OTC remedies and consult with your healthcare provider if you are on any medications. These remedies are meant to alleviate symptoms but may have additional side effects and may also react with other medications you may be taking.
It’s crucial to remember that OTC remedies shouldn’t be mixed with alcohol, especially if you have liver problems, and should only be used with caution.
Avoid Drinking Too Much
The most effective way to avoid a hangover is to drink responsibly. Drinking moderation paired with enough food and water to keep you hydrated can drastically reduce your chances of experiencing a hangover. Limit the amount you drink, space it out throughout the night, and avoid binge-drinking and shots. Know your limits and stick to them and avoid drinking on an empty stomach.
If the people you’re with are pressuring you to drink more than your body can handle, it’s okay to say no and take control of your drinking. Your well-being comes first, always.
Conclusion
Hangovers can be an unpleasant experience, but it doesn’t have to ruin your day. Drinking enough water, having a nutritious meal, getting enough rest, engaging in moderate exercise, using OTC remedies with caution, and drinking responsibly are all ways to alleviate common hangover symptoms.
Remember, prevention is always better than a cure. Drink responsibly, know your limits, and keep yourself hydrated with non-alcoholic drinks to prevent hangovers from occurring in the first place.
