Fit rather than knackered: Your hangover-busting plan for the festive season
Christmas and New Year’s Eve – the season for festive drinks! But when ‘just one drink’ turns into more, the next day often brings unpleasant consequences: headaches, dizziness and nausea are typical symptoms of a hangover. But don’t worry, you don’t just have to put up with this.
Alcohol – or, more precisely, ethanol – acts like a poison on your body. Your liver works flat out to get rid of the toxic breakdown products – in the process, it depletes your body of water and minerals. This leads to dehydration, poor blood flow to the brain and the unpleasant symptoms we’re all familiar with.
To help you get back on your feet quickly and feel energised again, we’ve put together the best tips for you. Regain your energy and enjoy the festive season to the full – without long hangover breaks!
- How water keeps you in balance. You can prevent a hangover whilst you’re still out by drinking a glass of water with every glass of alcohol. This helps your body to detoxify and reduces dehydration. The next morning, rehydrating is essential: opt for still water, diluted fruit juices or soothing ginger or camomile tea to ease any stomach discomfort.
- Hangover breakfast: a lifesaver. A balanced breakfast helps your body recharge its batteries. Foods such as wholemeal bread, cheese, salmon or gherkins provide important nutrients and boost your metabolism. If your stomach’s playing up, opt for gentle alternatives such as pretzel sticks and chicken stock.
- Fresh air works wonders. Even if the sofa seems tempting, a walk in the fresh air stimulates your circulation and aids detoxification. A cold shower is also refreshing and boosts your circulation. Even a short walk round the block can work wonders.
- Use painkillers with care. Headaches are often the most unpleasant symptom. But be careful when choosing a painkiller: paracetamol puts additional strain on the liver and, when combined with alcohol, can release toxic substances. Painkillers such as ibuprofen or ASA (acetylsalicylic acid) are the better choice in this case.
With these tips, you’ll be well equipped to get back on track even after a lively celebration. Remember: prevention is the best protection – so make sure you drink alcohol in moderation and drink plenty of water in between.