5 Simple Ways to Cure a Hangover

Monday, February 3, 2014



Don't we all know it - a few glasses to much, maybe an unlucky mix of wine, beer and the last shots you barely remember and should have never had. It happens to everyone of us every once in a while, no matter how much we promise not to drink too much on the day after. Here is what you can do to fix yourself.
Alcohol can interfere with your sleep and upset your stomach. It can also make you feel dizzy and sick the next day. There many hangover cures, but only a few really work. Unfortunately there is no instant cure, so the best thing you can do is to stay hydrated and avoid alcohol for 48 hours. Hangover symptoms are often caused by low blood sugar and dehydration. Water and fresh fruit juices will hydrate your body and flush out the toxins. In addition to plenty of rest, here are some simple ways to cure a hangover fast:

Drink Water
Drink as much water as possible before going to bed. Alcohol is a strong diuretic that may cause dehydration when consumed in excess. By drinking water at bedtime, you'll flush out the alcohol and reduce hangover symptoms. Have a glass of water at hand. Add some lemon and honey to soothe your stomach and nourish your body. You might wake up because your bladder is full to burst, but it's  the best choice you can make nonetheless. 

Exercise
You probably won’t be able to go the gym after a hangover, but this doesn’t mean you can't exercise at home. Physical activity increases endorphins and lowers cortisol levels, which may reduce hangover symptoms. It’s enough to do a few exercises at home or go jogging. 

Avoid Coffee
If you have a hangover, stay away from coffee. I know, often our first thought is to have a cup of coffee to wake up, but just like alcohol, caffeine is a diuretic. Not only it will dehydrate you, but also cause digestive problems and give you a headache. You may experience heart palpitations, hypoglycemia and other side effects of dehydration. 

Eat Eggs
Eggs are an excellent source of taurine, an amino acid that helps reverse liver damage caused by alcohol consumption. It also fights oxidative stress and boosts your energy. To cure a hangover, have an omelet or boiled eggs in the morning. 

Drink Pickle Juice
In many countries, pickle juice is a favorite cure for hangovers. It contains vitamins B12 and C as well as good bacteria that soothe your stomach. The vitamins in pickle juice improve liver function and stabilize blood sugar levels.

Bonus: Coconut water (again)
I'm talking pure coconut water here, not some overpriced stuff with added sugar. Here in Vietnam it's available on every street corner and it does work wonders. It's full of anti-oxidants and electrolytes (a ton of potassium), both of which are essential for curing a hangover.

Any special hangover cures only you know about? Let us know!

photo credit: Menno van der Horst via photopin cc