To get rid of a hangover, the most effective approach involves rehydrating with water or electrolyte-rich drinks, resting, and replenishing carbohydrates to stabilize blood sugar. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or aspirin can help with headaches, but acetaminophen should be avoided due to liver risk. Eating bland, carb-rich foods such as toast or crackers can also ease symptoms. Avoid darker alcoholic drinks to prevent worse hangovers and skip the "hair of the dog" remedy (drinking more alcohol). Time and rest are key since the body needs to clear toxins and heal itself.
Key Remedies for Hangovers
- Rehydration: Drink plenty of water or electrolyte drinks like sports drinks or coconut water to replace fluids lost due to alcohol’s diuretic effect and symptoms like vomiting or sweating.
- Carbohydrates: Eating carbs helps raise low blood sugar caused by alcohol, easing fatigue and headaches. Good choices include toast, crackers, and fruit.
- Pain relief: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or aspirin help with headaches and body aches. Avoid acetaminophen (Tylenol) due to its harmful interaction with alcohol in the system.
- Rest: Rest and sleep allow the body to recover fully since hangovers disrupt quality sleep and immune function.
- Avoid harsher measures: Avoid consuming more alcohol ("hair of the dog") as it worsens recovery. Also, avoid greasy or fatty meals that irritate the stomach further after drinking.
Preventative Tips
- Drinking clear liquors (vodka, gin) causes less severe hangovers than darker liquors like whiskey or red wine, which have more toxic congeners.
- Drinking water before bed after drinking alcohol can help reduce next-day hangover symptoms.
In summary, hangovers require time to heal, but relief can be helped by hydration, carbs, pain relief, and rest while avoiding harmful substances or practices.
