Hangover Cures

We've all been there, overindulging at a holiday party or other festive occasion. But, unless you're medically restricted, there's nothing wrong with having drinks in moderation while celebrating with friends and family.

However, when you wake up the following day with a pounding headache or dry mouth, you're suffering from the after-effects of partying a bit too hard. But before you vow to never drink again and feel like nothing can cure your symptoms, some anecdotes can actually help you get rid of your hangover. 

 

Why Do We Get Hangovers? 

The simple answer is because you drank one too many cocktails, but getting a hangover is a bit more complex. Alcohol is a diuretic, which is why you tend to go to the bathroom frequently when you're drinking. This causes us to become dehydrated, causing our headaches, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, and other symptoms associated with a hangover. As you stop drinking and your blood alcohol content (BAC) comes back down to 0, your hangover symptoms get more intense, almost as if you're suffering from withdrawal. 

 

Ways to Treat Hangover Symptoms

A hangover can leave you struggling to get out of bed, waking up in a fuzzy state, feeling irritable and sensitive to light - none of which are good for you or your daily plans. If you find yourself suffering from a hangover, here are some tips for temporary relief:

• Hydrate. Dehydration is the main culprit in most hangovers. If you're headed out for a heavy night of drinking, plan ahead! Drink plenty of water beforehand, and have a glass of water between alcoholic beverages. Another option is to drink plenty of water before going to bed and continue rehydrating once you wake up the next day. 

• Eat Healthy. While you may be tempted to eat greasy or comfort foods to help your hangover, avoid the urge. Alcohol not only dehydrates you but also depletes the potassium in your body, so opt for a banana of kiwi fruit instead. If you can stomach something more substantial, choose protein-rich foods (i.e., meat, beans, protein shake). Protein contains amino acids to help detoxify your body of alcohol. 

• Replace Electrolytes. Replacing lost sodium helps your body perform cellular functions to restore wellness and get you back to your non-hangover self. Any non-alcoholic beverage will help, but coconut water and sports drinks contain extra electrolytes; however, watch for added sugars—drinks with antioxidants and vitamin C help neutralize free radicals, helping to minimize headaches. 

• Be Careful with OTC Medications. Although you may be inclined to reach for ibuprofen or aspirin, these pain products can cause more harm than good - especially if your stomach is already irritated from last night's overindulging. 

• Light Exercise. Exercise is probably one of the last things that come to mind, as laying on the couch sounds much more comfortable. However, sweating is one of the best hangover cures because it eliminates additional toxic chemicals from alcohol from the body - all it takes is a brisk walk or gentle yoga. Additionally, it releases endorphins to help thwart the negative feelings of a hangover. 

• Avoid Alcohol. While you've heard of "the hair of the dog," drinking additional alcohol will only prolong getting over your hangover. It takes time for alcohol to leave your body, so the tried-and-true way to relieve a hangover is to stop drinking, follow the above tips, and wait it out. 

 

About Universal Fine Wine & Spirits

Universal Fine Wine and Spirits is a family-owned and operated business located just north of the Tampa Bay area in Holiday, Florida. We specialize in rare liquors, handcrafted wines, and craft beers and provide exceptional pricing on everyday staples. Our staff has over thirty years of combined beverage industry experience and take pride in taking extra special care of our customers. Stop in to see us or visit our website today!

 

 

 

 

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Sources

https://www.foodnetwork.com/how-to/articles/how-to-cure-a-holiday-hangover

https://www.nbcnews.com/better/health/holiday-hangover-how-bounce-back-food-booze-emotional-stress-ncna823096

http://primemed4u.com/blog/what-cures-a-holiday-hangover/

https://www.sharecare.com/health/holiday-health/remedy-holiday-hangover