Getting a hangover after a fun night out on the town is something that almost every adult who enjoys alcohol has experienced. Drinking responsibly can be a great way to destress after a long week of work or a unique way of celebrating occasions like weddings, promotions, or college graduations. However, there is something special about your favorite beer, wine, or mixed drink after a long day or at the beginning of a great weekend or vacation. It’s one of the simple pleasures in life that’s hard to imagine living without.
Hangovers, on the other hand, universally, are something that no one wants to deal with. These bothersome symptoms after the fun have died can range from slightly annoying to awful. Moreover, the older people get, their hangover symptoms typically become more extreme. One of the main reasons someone might be discouraged from enjoying some drinks on a weekend night is likely to be how they feel the next day.
For most people, the concept of dealing with a hangover has been something they have tackled since they started using alcohol to celebrate life and have a good time. While there is no end to ‘homemade’ recipes for dealing with a hangover, there are some universal ‘dos’ and some universal ‘don’ts.
If you have been wondering about the dos and don’ts of dealing with a hangover – here is everything you need to know!
Let’s Start With The Dos
Okay, so let’s get the big Dos first. These are some great ways that you can help improve your chances of not having a bad hangover the next day!
Eat Something Before Drinking
Alcohol can sit heavy on your stomach, no matter what you drink. This kind of experience is rich in calories, and it can be all too tempting to go out with friends on an empty stomach. While yes, alcohol has a lot of calories, and you should have the freedom to be mindful of this when you head out – eating something beforehand can help with the effects of your fun night.
By eating food that doesn’t have to be intense, you can better grasp the amount you drink. When you drink on an empty stomach, it’s easier to feel the effects of alcohol more aggressively, which can affect your judgment and lead to drinking a little more than you need to.
A quick, light, healthy snack to ensure your stomach isn’t empty before your first drink is an excellent Do.
Hangover Drink
Another great “do” that you should consider is a hangover drink. These simple drinks are typically something you take in the beginning or middle of the night, giving your body the nutrients it needs. Remember, though; there’s no such thing as a “cure” for a hangover; alcohol will do what it does to your body. However, when adequately supplied with the nutrients you need, you have a fighting chance of minimizing or mitigating the hangover.
Take it Easy if You Can
We’ve all been there when you are clocking into work with a hangover because that’s what you must do. But if you have a hangover and you have the legitimate option of staying in and taking it easy – give your body a break and spend a little extra time resting.
Now for the Don’ts
Okay, so here are some things you should never do while actively experiencing a hangover. While some of these might seem like common sense, it’s good to reiterate them!
First, Stop Drinking!
Yes, you may be on vacation, and your boss doesn’t require you to clock in and be sober—but if you are experiencing symptoms of a hangover, lay off the alcohol until it clears up. Your mind and your body will thank you for this decision, and you can avoid getting potentially sick from continuing to drink alcohol during a hangover.
Don’t Take Acetaminophen
When you have a hangover, taking common headache medications like Tylenol or other over-the-counter products containing acetaminophen may be tempting, but you shouldn’t. The reason is that acetaminophen, in conjunction with alcohol, may cause liver damage. In addition, taking acetaminophen while hungover may have long-term effects that are not desirable, so avoid any medication that contains it!
Conclusion
While there is no “cure” for a hangover, there are certain things you can do, like having a hangover drink or eating something before you go out, and things you can avoid that can help make the hangover bearable or pass more quickly. By preparing for the hangover the day before, you can have a great chance of minimizing your hangover symptoms the next day!