Too many margaritas last night? Regretting that last glass of wine? While we always suggest indulging mindfully and drinking in moderation, we know we sometimes stray from our good intentions.
Simply put, hangovers are caused by drinking too much alcohol, but what constitutes “too much” is different for everyone. In fact, some people may have a hangover from one drink, while others can drink heavily and wake up hangover-free. According to the Mayo Clinic, there are many factors that contribute to the way you feel after a night of drinking:
- Alcohol can lead to dehydration, which manifests in symptoms like thirst, dizziness, and lightheadedness.
- Alcohol increases the production of stomach acid, thus causing pain, nausea, or vomiting.
- Alcohol can make you weak, shaky, or moody as a result of low blood sugar.
- Alcohol makes your blood vessels expand, which can cause headaches.
- Alcohol prevents deep stages of sleep and often causes you to wake up in the middle of the night, leaving you tired and groggy.
Hangover symptoms are never fun, and the Internet is flooded with hangover “cures” like magic pills, IV drips, and questionable concoctions. Instead, try one of these natural remedies to get you back to feeling your best:
Hydrate – Alcohol dehydrates you, so it’s important to hydrate before, during, and after drinking. While out, alternate between alcoholic beverages and water and try to drink at least one large glass of water before going to bed. Continue to hydrate throughout the next day and mix it up with coconut water – it’s high in electrolytes!
Sweat – The thought of leaving your bed to go to the gym with a hangover may be painful, but once you get over the hump, it’s totally worth it. While it may not be a good idea to go for a 10-mile run the morning after drinking, exercise stimulates the lymphatic system, eliminates toxins from your body, gets your blood flowing, and releases endorphins. Opt for light exercise that will restore your energy, such as yoga, walking, stretching, or spinning – and don’t forget to hydrate!
Eat – Say no to the greasy hangover breakfast sandwich and reach for foods that will actually make you feel better. Brassica vegetables – broccoli, cauliflower, kale, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts – contain an enzyme that actually supports liver detox. Potassium-rich foods like bananas, avocados, spinach, sweet potatoes, yogurt, and citrus fruits are also a great way to replenish important nutrients. Try this superfood smoothie with coconut water, bananas, oats, pumpkin puree, and spinach to get you back on your feet.
What’s your favorite natural hangover cure? Let us know in the comments below!
