There are many different theories out there on the best way to cure a hangover. Some are helpful and some can actually make the problem worse. The following are several misconceptions people have about how to cure a hangover:
- “Hair of the Dog”
Having a drink the morning after a night of partying does not “cure” a hangover—it only delays it. Furthermore, drinking when you wake up is a symptom of alcoholism.
- Black coffee
The caffeine in coffee may make you feel better at first, but ultimately it dehydrates you even more, thus contributing to the symptoms of your hangover.
- Before you go to sleep, take Tylenol
Taking Tylenol, which contains acetaminophen, should not been taken with alcohol as combing the two has been linked to liver damage.
- Eating fried foods the morning after
Foods high in fat are more difficult to digest. Eating greasy foods when you have a hangover can further upset you stomach by forcing it to work harder.
That being said, there are several things you can do to lessen the symptoms of a hangover. The following are several hangover cures that can actually help:
- Eggs
Eggs contain cysteine— a chemical that breaks down toxins responsible for the “hungover” feeling you experience.
- Drink plenty of water and sports drinks
Dehydration is largely responsible for the headache and dizziness you experience after a night of heavy drinking. If possible, try to drink at least a glass of water before you go to bed. The next day, drink sports drinks containing electrolytes to help rehydrate.
- Bananas
Dehydration depletes potassium levels in the body. Fruits high in potassium, such as bananas, can replenish potassium levels.
- Pain Relievers
Aspirin and ibuprofen can alleviate the headache associated with hangovers.
Of course the best way to avoid a hangover is not to get drunk in the first place. If you find yourself experiencing hangovers frequently, this may be cause for concern. In fact, frequent hangovers are a symptom of alcoholism. If you find yourself going out with the intention of just having one or two drinks, but wake up in the morning with a hangover, this is a sign that you may have a more serious problem than a hangover. If you or someone you love is struggling with alcoholism, don’t wait for the problem to get worse. Help is available now. We can explain to you the symptoms of alcoholism and help you decide if treatment is necessary. Contact the Recovery Associates of the Palm Beaches today.
