How to Head Off a Hangover

Oh, the throbbing head ... the queasy stomach ... the thundering vibrations from the smallest movement. It’s the morning after a night of too much to drink, and now you’re miserable with a full-blown hangover. You’d be willing to try almost anything to get rid of it.

 

Unfortunately, the only real cure for a hangover is to wait it out. But meanwhile, you suffer. To ease the discomfort:

•  Drink 2 or more glasses of water when you get up.

•  Get as much rest as you can. Avoid bright lights.

•  Take aspirin (or an aspirin substitute) to help ease the overall ache.

These tips can save you a lot of self-induced misery.

•  Try an over-the-counter product (brand name Chaser-Freedom From Hangovers).

•  Have 2 or more glasses of water before you go to sleep.

•  Eat a high-fat source of protein, like cheese or meat, to help prevent the nausea or heartburn associated with drinking.

•  Avoid drinks that are more likely than others to cause a hangover. Bourbon, scotch, red wine, and peach schnapps contain congeners, substances that give flavor to liquor and produce longer-lasting hangovers. Vodka and gin are low in congeners.

•  Most important, don’t overdo it.

This website is not meant to substitute for expert medical advice or treatment. Follow your doctor’s or health care provider’s advice if it differs from what is given in this guide.

 

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