The morning-after-effects of over indulging in alcohol vary from person to person but there are some “old home cures” or home remedies for hangovers you may want to try. According to a 1992 Danish study over 75% of adults will experience a hangover at some point. The most common complaint related to hangovers is headaches.
The Mechanics & Prevention of Hangovers
The ethanol in alcohol causes dehydration, which can cause headaches, dry mouth and tiredness. Drinking plenty of water before going out, and through out the night can diminish the impact of hangovers the next day.
Ethanol is broken down in the liver with the assistance of enzymes. The effect of excess alcohol in the system reduces the liver’s ability to provide glucose and other enzymes to the brain which results in fatigue, weakness, inability to focus and moodiness.
Dark spirits like whiskey, red wine and brandy have more congeners than clear or white alcohols like vodka and white wine, congeners exaggerate the effects of hangovers. Cheaper spirits filter less and are more likely to produce hangovers. Sugar in sweeter cocktails may contribute the severity of hangovers.
Smoking while drinking can cause nicotine poisoning which will create worse hangovers.
The more you drink in a given span, the more severe the hangover is likely to be.
Home Cures for the Hangover
An Ounce of Prevention
Before you indulge try to prepare your body. Some recommend eating almonds or peanut butter; others suggest a fatty meal. Food in the system of any kind will slow down the effects of ethanol.
Drinks with caffeine, tomato juice or fruit juice may help replace the lost glucose in your system. Drinking slowing, rather than guzzling will also help. Drinking lots of water between and with the drinks will slow down dehydration.
After Effects
Alcohol disrupts rapid eye movement sleep, and contributes to frequent waking during the night. So, if possible go back to sleep; sleeping it off will restore the body’s equilibrium.
Restore the internal balance of your body as quickly as you can handle it. Add back water, as quickly as you can handle it. If you can handle it add a small amount of tomato or apple juice to restore the glucose levels.
Try eating something. A bland meal like poached eggs on toast may be a choice if you can handle eggs in the morning. Bananas will add to the potassium level of the body.
“Teas” made from ginger root and distilled water or a “hot toddy” of lemon, hot water and honey will help restore the glucose balance. Hair of the dog drinks are popular “cures” with the most effective including Bloody Mary or Tomato Juice bases.
