This article will highlight different ways to reduce symptoms associated with a hangover. However, it is important to notice that excessive intake of alcohol is not recommended, however we will now provide you with advices on how to reduce the side effects from alcohol. Alcohol is harmful for the body, and therefore it should not be consumed in excessive amounts, and especially not during a short period of time.
The symptoms associated with a hangover are only some of the consequences of excessive alcohol consumption, hence there are many others; serious accidents, loss of emotional control including anger or sadness, and poor ability to make decisions. Now, with these side effects being mentioned, we will mention what to do if you want to enjoy a couple of drinks in a responsible manner, and at the same time prevent a hangover the next days.
1. Eat, eat and eat
It is important to eat a satisfying meal before drinking, both in order to reduce the amount of alcohol you consume and the risk of alcohol poisoning. Furthermore, it is recommended to continue eating during the evening. Food, especially the fat in food, helps the body to slow the absorption of alcohol, however the food has to be in the stomach before the alcohol. If the food is ingested after alcohol consumption, it will be too late and will not have the desired effect.
2. Drink a glass of water
When you have had a drink, it is recommended to drink a glass of water before the next round begins, as it will dilute the concentration of alcohol in the blood and prevent dehydration.
3. Ibuprofen
If you are already suffering from a hangover and self-pity - it can be recommended to take two pills of Ibuprofen before you go to bed and once again when you wake up, since the medicine can relieve a headache. However, it is recommended to avoid aspirin, as alcohol mixed with aspirin increases the risk of inflammation and ulceration of the stomach, which can cause bleeding.
4. Rehydration
It is important to rehydrate. It is therefore advisable to drink a lot of non-alcoholic liquid which preferably contain salt and other electrolytes to restore the body's fluid and electrolyte balance. This is an important need for the body, as alcohol increases urination, and thereby the balance can be shifted.
5. Myths
Finally it must be mentioned that drinking a beer the next morning does not help curing a hangover, as the alcohol in the beer only delays the recovery. Additionally, a large meal consisting of burger and fries as ”breakfast” would perhaps have been helpful if it was consumed before the festivities. These advices are therefore simply myths.
When it comes to hangovers, it must be clear: there is no cure, but there are ways that can reduce or prevent discomfort the next day. The most important advice is; be responsible and drink in moderation! Alcohol can cause permanent injury and not just the short-term symptoms felt during an extremely unpleasant hangover!
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