The holiday season, marked by office parties and family gatherings, often leads to overindulgence in alcohol, resulting in hangovers that many seek to remedy with various supposed cures. Despite a plethora of tips circulating on social media—ranging from greasy breakfasts to “hair of the dog” cocktails—experts stress that most hangover remedies fail to address the biological processes involved in alcohol metabolism. Dr. Hillary Lin, a physician based in New York City, emphasizes that most solutions do not consider the liver’s role as a complex chemical processing organ rather than a simple sponge.
According to the National Institutes of Health, hangovers occur as the body reacts to the buildup of harmful byproducts produced during alcohol breakdown. Dr. Lin states, “You can’t biohack a hangover once it starts.” With this in mind, experts have identified five common myths that many believe can alleviate hangover symptoms.
Myth 1: ‘Hair of the Dog’ Will Help
The notion of consuming more alcohol to ease a hangover, known as “hair of the dog,” merely postpones the inevitable, according to Dr. Lin. While it may temporarily alleviate symptoms, it adds more work for the liver and does not address the underlying issues of dehydration and toxic byproducts. Alexa Ryan, a neurotherapist and clinical dietitian from California, supports this view, stating, “It doesn’t address the underlying dehydration, inflammation, or toxic alcohol byproducts.”
Moreover, Ian Anderson, co-founder of Sunnyside, a mindful drinking app, explains that combining alcohol with substances like tobacco can worsen hangover symptoms and cognitive function.
Myth 2: Greasy Breakfasts Are Beneficial
Many believe that a heavy breakfast can absorb leftover alcohol, but experts argue otherwise. Dr. Lin points out that by the time one wakes up, the alcohol has already cleared the stomach, leaving nothing to “soak up.” The best strategy, according to Ryan, is to consume food prior to drinking to slow alcohol absorption. While certain foods like eggs and bananas may aid recovery, experts caution that evidence supporting these claims is limited.
Myth 3: Coffee or Lemon Water Detox
Reaching for coffee or lemon water in hopes of flushing out alcohol is a common practice, but experts assert that detoxification does not occur this way. Ryan highlights that alcohol has already disrupted sleep and irritated the stomach lining by the time hangover symptoms manifest. She adds that coffee can impede rehydration and increase blood pressure, which may exacerbate headaches and anxiety. “Plain water is your best friend when you’ve overindulged,” Anderson advises.
Myth 4: Patches and Supplements Offer Quick Relief
While some patches and supplements claim to alleviate hangover symptoms, experts indicate that most act too late to be effective. Dr. Lin notes that certain probiotics may offer a different approach by breaking down acetaldehyde in the gut before it enters the bloodstream. She recommends consuming a high-quality electrolyte mix before sleeping as a more proactive measure.
Myth 5: ‘Sweat-It-Out’ Exercise
The belief that exercise can help eliminate alcohol from the body is another misconception. Experts clarify that alcohol is metabolized at a consistent rate by the liver, meaning exercise cannot expedite this process. Ryan warns that exercising while hungover can lead to worsened dehydration and increased dizziness. “Anything that adds more stress to the body usually backfires,” she advises.
No Proven Cure for Hangovers
Despite numerous claims about hangover remedies, health professionals agree there is no definitive cure. Anderson highlights that the most effective strategy involves moderation and avoiding binge drinking, defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as consuming five or more standard drinks for men and four for women in a single session.
Furthermore, experts assert that no level of alcohol consumption is entirely safe, as even low levels can increase cancer risk. When the damage is done, recovery hinges on rest, hydration, and time. Ryan emphasizes the importance of prioritizing fluids with electrolytes and consuming a balanced meal while allowing the liver time to detoxify effectively.
In conclusion, while the holiday season can lead to festive cheer, the subsequent hangovers call for a realistic understanding of recovery methods. Adopting preventive measures and prioritizing hydration can significantly enhance well-being during this celebratory time.
