The holiday season often leads to overindulgence in alcohol, leaving many people seeking remedies for hangovers the next day. Despite the plethora of supposed cures circulating on social media, experts indicate that most of these methods do not effectively address the body’s process of metabolizing alcohol. According to Dr. Hillary Lin, a physician based in New York City, “Most hangover ‘cures’ fail because they treat the liver like a sponge rather than a chemical processing plant that it is.”
A hangover is the body’s response to the buildup of toxic byproducts as it works to eliminate alcohol, as stated by the National Institutes of Health. Experts warn that there is no quick fix for a hangover, emphasizing the need for hydration and rest.
Common Hangover Myths Debunked
Experts have identified five popular myths surrounding hangover cures, shedding light on what truly works.
1. ‘Hair of the Dog’
The practice of consuming more alcohol to relieve hangover symptoms, known as “hair of the dog,” merely postpones the inevitable, according to Lin. While this approach may provide temporary relief, it increases the liver’s workload. Alexa Ryan, a neurotherapist and clinical dietitian nutritionist from California, adds that this method fails to address dehydration and inflammation caused by alcohol consumption. Furthermore, Ian Anderson, co-founder of the mindful drinking app Sunnyside, cautions that combining alcohol with tobacco or cannabis can exacerbate hangover symptoms and impair cognitive function.
2. Greasy Breakfasts
The idea that a heavy breakfast can alleviate a hangover is misleading. Lin explains that by the time one wakes up with a hangover, the alcohol has already left the stomach. A greasy meal may irritate an already sensitive digestive system. Experts suggest that consuming lighter foods, such as eggs and water-rich fruits, can be more beneficial for recovery, though scientific evidence supporting specific foods is limited.
3. Coffee or Lemon Water
Many individuals turn to coffee or lemon water in hopes of flushing out alcohol. However, Ryan clarifies that detoxification does not occur in this manner. By the time a hangover occurs, alcohol has already disrupted sleep and altered blood sugar levels. Additionally, Anderson points out that coffee can hinder rehydration and increase blood pressure, leading to worse headaches and increased anxiety. Plain water is recommended as the most effective remedy for hydration.
4. Patches or Supplements
Not all hangover patches or supplements are effective, with most acting too late to make a significant difference. Lin suggests that some emerging probiotics might help by breaking down acetaldehyde in the gut before it enters the bloodstream. Additionally, she recommends consuming a high-quality electrolyte mix before bed to support recovery.
5. ‘Sweat-It-Out’ Exercise
The notion that exercise can help eliminate alcohol from the body is a misconception. Ryan states, “You can’t sweat out alcohol. Your liver has to metabolize it.” Exercising while hungover can worsen dehydration and increase feelings of nausea, placing additional strain on the body. Experts advise against strenuous activities in favor of rest and hydration.
Effective Approaches for Recovery
Despite the myriad of claims regarding hangover cures, experts maintain that there is no universal remedy. The most effective method to limit hangover severity is to drink less and avoid binge-drinking, defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as five or more drinks for men and four or more for women in one occasion. Anderson suggests alternating alcoholic drinks with water or non-alcoholic beverages as a successful strategy.
Health professionals also emphasize that no level of alcohol consumption is completely safe, with even low levels associated with an increased risk of cancer. When faced with a hangover, recovery primarily involves rest, hydration, and time. Ryan concludes that prioritizing fluids rich in electrolytes, consuming a balanced meal, and allowing the liver to detoxify naturally are the most effective strategies for recovery.
