As the weather warms up and rosé season approaches, it’s easy to get carried away with indulging in Provence’s finest. However, when the hangover hits the next day, it can be a harsh reminder of the consequences of overindulging. Dietitian Laura Tilt is here to offer some guidance on how to alleviate your hangover and prevent it from happening again.
Hangovers are a complex combination of factors, with toxic acetaldehyde being a major culprit. This byproduct of alcohol breakdown can wreak havoc on your body, leaving you feeling less than magical. Your liver works hard to convert acetaldehyde into a less harmful compound, but it takes time. The more you drink, the longer your hangover may last due to this process.
To combat the dehydration caused by alcohol, it’s essential to rehydrate the morning after. While water is a good choice, isotonic sports drinks can be even more effective at replenishing electrolytes and sugars lost during drinking. Sipping fluids slowly can help avoid aggravating nausea.
When it comes to food, eggs are a top choice for hangover recovery. They contain cysteine, an amino acid that aids in metabolizing acetaldehyde. Pairing eggs with toast can help raise blood glucose levels and provide a comforting meal. While greasy fry-ups are a popular choice for some, there is little evidence to suggest that they actually help with hangovers.
For a full day of hangover recovery, Tilt recommends a meal plan that includes Marmite on toast before bed, Berocca and porridge for breakfast, eggs on toast with avocado for lunch, and leafy greens with salmon for dinner. These foods contain nutrients that can help support your body as it recovers from a night of drinking.
Remember, it’s possible to have a good time without overindulging in alcohol. Many celebrities have chosen to abstain from drinking, and some have even found that they enjoy life more without it. So, next time you’re tempted to go overboard on Provence’s finest, consider these tips for a smoother recovery the next day.
Hang in there, soldier of the sesh. And remember, you can still have a tonne of fun without the ethanol. Read how one writer quit booze for a year and became a mindful drinker. Check out the growing numbers of celebs who don’t drink alcohol, too.