Hangovers are quite unpleasant after getting intoxicated with alcohol. They strike after the alcohol has left the body and are characterized by fatigue, headache, nausea, loss of appetite, thirst, and dizziness. There are different remedies for hangover, but the scientific research behind them is limited. However, some strategies do show some potential. Also, you can use the best hangover patch that is available in stores. The following are some of the ways that can help to prevent hangovers.
Avoid Drinks that Contain a Lot of Congeners
Ethanol is the primary ingredient in alcoholic drinks. However, alcoholic drinks also contain different amounts of congeners. You should note that congeners are produced during the fermentation process. These are toxic chemicals such as acetone, isopentanol, and methanol. Alcoholic drinks that contain a high level of congeners tend to increase the intensity and frequency of hangovers. Various studies reveal that methanol is responsible for hangover symptoms. Some of the drinks that are high in congeners include cognac, tequila, and whiskey. Vodka does not contain congeners at all.
Have a Drink in the Morning
Although this seems paradoxical, it works. In fact, it is the most popular hangover remedy. Even though this idea is yet to be proven effective, there is interesting science that supports it. When you drink a lot of alcohol, you affect the metabolism of methanol. After drinking, methanol is converted into formaldehyde, a toxic substance that causes most hangover symptoms. Drinking some alcohol can inhibit the conversion process from forming. Rather methanol is discharged from the body harmlessly from the body through urine and breath. This explains why ethanol is commonly used in methanol poisoning.
Drink Plenty of Water
As you know, alcohol is diuretic. This makes you pee often. Thus, it contributes to dehydration. Even though dehydration is not regarded as one of the causes of hangovers, it may result in other symptoms such as fatigue, dry mouth, headache, and thirst. You can avoid dehydration by drinking adequate amounts of water. Always drink a glass of water or non-alcoholic beverages between drinks and have a glass of water before going to sleep.
Get Enough Sleep
You should note that alcohol can interfere with your sleeping patterns. It can impair sleep duration and quality. Although poor sleep may not cause hangover symptoms, it may result in irritability and fatigue associated with hangovers. Ensure you get adequate sleep after drinking alcohol to help your body to recover. If you find it difficult to sleep, you should take it easy the following day. In any case, getting drunk the next day may not be a great idea.