Beat That Hangover Hell

Eat before you go out.  This is one instance where a fatty meal is good for you.  Fat is digested slowly so will protect the stomach from the effects of alcohol.  This doesn’t give you the all clear to drink your body weight in vodka though, fat slows down the intake of alcohol, it doesn’t negate it!

Avoid dark colored drinks, such as red wine, port or brandy, or at the very least drink them in moderation.  These drinks contain more ‘congeners’ which can increase those morning after the night before feelings.

Aim to alternate alcoholic drinks with non fizzy soft drinks.  I know it’s boring but you’ll thank yourself tomorrow.

If you can remember drink a pint of water before bed.  Or orange juice as the vitamin C it contains can speed up the metabolism of alcohol by your liver.

Try and eat something.  Anything.  It will help to settle your stomach. 

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If all your efforts fail and you still wake up feeling like your head has been run over by a steam roller, try these:

Avoid painkillers.  Painkillers give your liver even more work to do, so only take them as an absolute last resort if you can.

Avoid the hair of the dog.  It has been scientifically proven that the hair of the dog works, but only in the short term.  All you are really doing is postponing the inevitable hangover.

Avoid caffeine.  It will make you feel better, but since a hangover is a sign of dehydration and caffeine dehydrates you, the benefits will be short lived and you might end up feeling worse.

Drink water and lots of it to rehydrate your dehydrated body.  Also try and drink some fruit juice as it can increase your energy levels and may help to rid your body of toxins.  If it is too acidic in your fragile state, dilute it with water.

Sleep.  This is probably the best way to beat your hangover.  Let your body recover while you sleep.