How to cure a hangover: Fastest ways for relief

Can you cure a hangover? Simply, no. But you can support your body's natural recovery from the after-effects of drinking alcohol.

We've all been there. You wake up feeling like you've been hit by a bus, with a pounding headache, nausea, and a desperate need for relief.

Hangovers can be a real drag, but there are ways to alleviate the symptoms and get back to feeling human again.

Let's explore hangover remedies, emphasising hydration, balanced nutrition, and rest. We'll also look at the benefits of natural remedies and how to use over-the-counter pain relievers responsibly, as well as practical tips to help you quickly get back on your feet.

What causes a hangover?

When you consume alcohol, your body breaks it down into acetaldehyde - a toxic substance .

Your liver works hard to convert this into less harmful compounds, but when you drink more than your liver can handle, acetaldehyde builds up and causes hangover symptoms.

Low blood sugar, dehydration, and the presence of congeners (byproducts of alcohol fermentation) also contribute to that dreaded hangover feeling.

What is the best hangover cure?

To be clear, there is no hangover "cure", but several remedies can help ease the symptoms. The best hangover aid is a combination of hydration, rest, and nutrition. Here are some of the most effective methods:

Hydrate with water

Dehydration is often the primary cause of hangover symptoms. Alcohol is a diuretic, which means you urinate more frequently and lose essential fluids. Drinking plenty of water is crucial to rehydrating your body.

Start with a large glass of water when you wake up and keep sipping throughout the day. Try electrolyte-rich drinks like coconut water or sports drinks to replenish lost minerals for an extra boost.

Carry a water bottle: Keep a water bottle with you to remind yourself to drink throughout the day. Set small goals, like finishing a bottle every hour.
Drink herbal teas: Herbal teas like ginger or peppermint can help soothe your stomach and provide variety from plain water.
Try broths and soups: Clear broths and soups hydrate and provide some essential nutrients.

Rest

Your body needs time to recover from the effects of alcohol. If possible, take it easy and allow yourself to sleep in. Resting helps your body repair and regain energy.

If you can't stay in bed all day, try avoid strenuous activities and give yourself a break. Rest doesn't just mean lying in bed - you can do plenty of wholesome activities while taking it easy:

Watch a comforting movie or TV show: Choose something light-hearted and feel-good. Avoid intense dramas or action-packed thrillers that might be too stimulating. Classic comedies, family movies, or your favourite sitcoms can provide a gentle distraction.
Read a book or listen to an audiobook: If you're up for it, get lost in a good book. If reading feels like too much effort, try listening to an audiobook. Choose something relaxing and engaging to help take your mind off your discomfort.
Listen to soothing music or a podcast: Create a playlist of your favourite calming songs or find an interesting podcast. Music can powerfully affect your mood and help you feel more relaxed and at ease.
Do light stretching or yoga: Gentle stretching or a simple yoga routine can help improve circulation and alleviate muscle tension. Keep it easy and focus on movements that feel good without pushing yourself too hard.
Practice mindfulness or meditation: Take a few minutes to meditate or practice mindfulness. Breathing exercises can help calm your mind and body, reducing the anxiety and stress that can sometimes accompany a hangover.
Enjoy a warm bath or shower: A warm bath or shower will relax the muscles and can make you feel more refreshed. Add some Epsom salts or essential oils for an extra soothing experience.

Remember - the key is to listen to your body and give it the time it needs to heal. By combining rest with these gentle, wholesome activities, you'll be back on your feet in no time.

Eat healthy food

Eating a balanced meal can help stabilise your blood sugar levels and give your body the nutrients it needs to recover. Choose vitamin and nutrient-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins:

Bananas: Great for replenishing depleted potassium levels after drinking alcohol.
Eggs: Contain amino acids like cysteine, which can help detoxify your liver .
Toast or crackers: Bland carbohydrates can help raise your blood sugar without upsetting your stomach.
Smoothies: Blending fruits and vegetables into a smoothie can make it easier to consume nutrients your body needs without overwhelming your digestive system.
Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal can be soothing and provide sustained energy.

Take pain relievers

Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or aspirin can offer relief if you're dealing with a pounding headache or muscle aches. But be cautious - these medications can irritate your stomach, especially after drinking. Here's how to use them safely:

Follow dosage instructions: Always follow the recommended dosage on the label to avoid potential side effects.
Avoid paracetamol: While it's effective for pain relief, acetaminophen (Paracetamol) can be harmful to your liver when combined with alcohol.
Take with food: Take pain relievers with a small meal or snack to reduce the risk of stomach irritation.

Enjoy a little caffeine

While too much caffeine can dehydrate you further, a small amount can help reduce headache symptoms and improve alertness. Here's how to enjoy caffeine without overdoing it:

Have a small cup: A single cup of coffee or tea can give you a much-needed boost without causing additional dehydration.
Opt for green tea: Green tea contains less caffeine than coffee and provides antioxidants to support your body's recovery.
Stay hydrated: Balance your caffeine intake with plenty of water to stay hydrated.

Take supplements and multivitamins

Certain supplements can help alleviate hangover symptoms and nourish your body with what it needs. B-vitamins and zinc, in particular, are depleted by alcohol consumption.

Taking a multivitamin or a specific hangover supplement like Humans Against Hangovers can help replenish these nutrients and support your body's recovery process.

Feel human again

Hangovers are never fun. But with the right approach, you can alleviate the symptoms and get back to feeling like yourself.

Remember to stay hydrated, eat well, rest up, and consider a little caffeine and the right supplements to speed up your recovery.

Here's to feeling human again!