How to Get Rid of a Hangover

There is nothing quite like a hangover to remind you that actions have consequences. A combination of some of these: nausea, fuzziness, headache, thirst, upset stomach, food aversion and fatigue are likely to haunt you the morning after the festivities. A surprising fact is that a hangover is at its worst when alcohol that you so generously allowed yourself is finally eliminated from your body. While your blood-alcohol level will be back to zero, you will suffer for the damage done.

As there is no cure for a hangover, the only solution is not to drink. However, being realistic, the best advice I have to offer is to take certain precautions while you drink that will reduce the chances of feeling wretched the following day. An important factor to be aware of is that certain steps to be taken before or while drinking, to prevent a hangover, are not likely to be effective once you've already been hit with one.

Hangover Headache Remedies

As the primary cause of a hangover headache is dehydration, drink plenty of water. If you've been throwing up, then all the more reason for you to replenish. While a greasy meal before and while you are drinking helps, once you have a hangover, it is better to stick to bland foods that have protein and carbs, such as a poached egg on toast. At this point, sugar will also help, so try to have some in whatever form is acceptable. As acidic juices make you feel worse, you can try to sip on some tomato juice or apple juice.

As far as medications go, you may take aspirin, naproxen, ibuprofen, or another NSAID, if you don't suffer from ulcers or a bleeding disorder. However, like all medicines, these too have side effects. One must NOT take acetaminophen (Tylenol).

Getting Rid of the Hangover

Water: Much of the woes of a hangover are due to dehydration. It is the primary cause of the headache and dry mouth. Ideally, drink plenty of water before you go to bed, and then again when you wake up. This will speed up the recover process. If possible, add a little salt and sugar to the water, or try a sports drink like Gatorade. If you choose another one, make sure that it is non-caffeinated and non-carbonated.

Sleep: Since you cannot do much else, the best way to do away with a hangover is to sleep. Also, keep a bucket and bottle of water close to the bed.

Sugar: The need for sugar is because alcohol breaks down sugar stores in the liver. These reserves need to be replaced, or you will keep feeling lightheaded and weak. Consume sugar in the most acceptable form, maybe in some fruit juice, or a donut or brownie.

Bacon Sandwich: Not too long ago, I read a news report that said that a bacon sandwich helps a hangover. I know, not exactly what you want when you are feeling queasy, but there is a scientific explanation to it. To start, food helps increase your metabolism, which helps your body to get rid of the booze more quickly. That apart, bread is full of carbs, and bacon is a good source of protein, which breaks down into amino acids, which your body needs. Additionally, excess alcohol depletes neurotransmitters, and as bacon contains a high level of amino acids, it helps in recovering from a hangover.

Apart from these steps, the answer for how to get rid of nausea may lie in some over-the-counter hangover cures. Most of them contain an anti-inflammatory drug, and many have caffeine in them. While there are many other recommendations, these are sure to help.