For some of us, that period between Christmas and New Year is when you forget what day it is and every day is a blur of food, drinks and maybe binging too much TV. If you’re drinking your way through the end of 2020, here are 5 hangover cures you must know.
1. Eat breakfast
Eating may not be at the top of your to-do list in the morning, but it’s the best way to rebalance your blood sugar levels and eliminate all the yuckies that come with a hangover: nausea, fatigue and a grumbling stomach. We’d recommend skipping that McMuffin and picking something rich in nutrients instead.
2. Stay hydrated
Alcohol is a diuretic and part of a hangover can be attributed to being excessively dehydrated. Besides water, coconut water, sports drinks, ginger tea and fruit juices are a great way to replenish electrolytes and soothe a few hangover symptoms. Side note: Avoid coffee, soda and highly caffeinated teas.
3. Go back to bed
Alcohol disrupts the cycles of your sleeping patterns so if you’ve woken up after a wild night, tuck yourself back in bed (after hydrating). Good sleep will help reset your circadian rhythm and give your body the rest it’s craving for.
4. Have a cold shower
You won’t just wake up instantly but you’ll feel fresher, better and a little less like dragging your feet through the day.
5. Get rid of the nausea
Feeling nauseated is one of the worst symptoms of a hangover so take care of that first. Start with a warm cup of ginger tea, if it doesn’t subside add an effervescent drink. Soda water, effervescent vitamin C in water or ¼ a teaspoon of baking soda in a glass of warm water. This should soothe your stomach and help you get through the day.
If you haven’t been told already, the best way to treat a hangover is really to avoid it in the first place. Drink moderately, space out your drinks and don’t mix. Alternate with water, eat well before and after and sleep when your body tells you the party’s over! Drink responsibility and enjoy the festivities!