Have you woken up with a throbbing head, a dry mouth, and a general feeling that the world has set its sights on you? This is a sign that you have a hangover. Fortunately, there are proven ways to alleviate its symptoms and get back in shape faster.
However, before we get into the specifics, it is worth understanding where this unpleasant feeling comes from.
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Why does I get a headache after alcohol?
A hangover is a set of symptoms that appear after consuming excessive amounts of alcohol. The most common include:
- Headache
- Nausea and vomiting
- Vertigo
- Dehydration
- General weakness and fatigue
Alcohol is a diuretic, which leads to dehydration and loss of electrolytes such as sodium and potassium. It is the disturbance of the water and electrolyte balance that is the main cause of headaches and malaise. In addition, alcohol dilates blood vessels in the brain, which can also exacerbate pain.
How to get rid of a hangover quickly? 4 Best Practices
There is no magic way to get rid of a hangover instantly. However, you can alleviate its symptoms and speed up the body’s regeneration. Here are 4 best practices:
1. Hydration is key
Drinking plenty of fluids is an absolute must in the fight against hangovers. Mineral water will be the best, as it will replenish electrolyte deficiencies. Also good choices are:
- Water with lemon: Lemon provides vitamin C and helps with detoxification.
- Isotonic drinks: They contain electrolytes that will quickly replenish deficiencies in the body.
- Chicken soup: It provides fluids, electrolytes and easily digestible nutrients.
Avoid:
- Coffee: Although it can give you energy, coffee is a diuretic and can aggravate dehydration.
- Sugary carbonated drinks: They contain a lot of sugar, which burdens the body and hinders regeneration.
2. Food relieves symptoms
Although the appetite during a hangover may be lower, it is worth eating something easily digestible. Products rich in:
- Carbohydrates: They will provide energy and help stabilize blood sugar levels. Bananas, toast, rice are good choices.
- Protein: It will support the regeneration of the body. Reach for eggs, natural yogurt, lean meat.
- Potassium: It will replenish electrolyte deficiencies. You will find it in bananas, tomatoes, avocados.
Avoid:
- Fatty and hard to digest foods: They put a strain on the stomach and can exacerbate nausea.
- Hot spices: They can irritate the stomach.
3. Sleep and rest
The body needs time to regenerate after drinking alcohol. Sleep is the best way to rest and regenerate. Try to ensure a good night’s sleep in a dark and quiet room.
4. Home remedies for hangovers
There are many home remedies for hangovers that can provide relief. Here are a few:
- Ginger: It has antiemetic and anti-inflammatory properties. It can be consumed in the form of an infusion or added to tea.
- Honey: It provides fructose, which accelerates the metabolism of alcohol.
- Sauerkraut juice: Replenishes electrolytes and vitamins.
- Cool forehead compress: Relieves headaches.
Remember! Home remedies can bring relief, but they cannot replace hydration and rest.
What to avoid during a hangover?
- Another dose of alcohol: The “wedge” is a myth. Drinking alcohol for a hangover will only make things worse and delay the body’s recovery.
- Intense physical exertion: It can increase dehydration and strain on the body.
- Analgesics: Some painkillers, such as paracetamol, can be harmful to the liver, which is already burdened with metabolizing alcohol.
When is a hangover dangerous?
In most cases, the hangover goes away on its own within 24 hours. However, if the symptoms are very severe or persist for longer, you should consult a doctor. This could be a sign of alcohol intoxication or another health problem.
How to prevent hangovers?
The best way to avoid a hangover is to drink alcohol in moderation. Here are some additional tips:
- Eat before and during alcohol: Food slows down the absorption of alcohol into the blood.
- Drink plenty of water: Water prevents dehydration.
- Choose drinks with low alcohol content: The lower the alcohol content, the lower the risk of a hangover.
- Avoid mixing different types of alcohol: This can exacerbate hangover symptoms.
Remember that alcohol is a psychoactive substance that can be addictive. Drink responsibly and take care of your health.
