How To Handle A Hangover – According To The Pros

Take Preventative Action

“If you have a big night on the cards, take 2g of vitamin C (that’s around 2,000mg) an hour before drinking – this will help the liver deal with toxins more efficiently. Vitamin C is a powerhouse of an antioxidant and is proven to remove toxins and free radicals. Before you hit the pillow, take a magnesium supplement as well as zinc picolinate, both of which can help prevent ‘hangxiety’ as they support neurological function. Zinc also supports the gut lining, which can be affected by alcohol. If you have a boozy couple of weeks in store, consider taking probiotics (especially a formula that contains bifidobacteria, which can help clear alcoholic by-products) and NAC for antioxidant support.” – Samantha Bloom, nutritionist 

Have Eggs For Breakfast

“Scrambled or poached eggs on toast with a generous portion of avocado is the hangover breakfast of kings. Eggs are a rich source of cysteine, an amino acid used by the body to produce glutathione, the master antioxidant. Avoid fried eggs, though, as anything greasy is tougher on the stomach and can leave you feeling nauseous. Avocado, meanwhile, is rich in potassium, which will help rebalance electrolytes. If you’re in a rush, try a breakfast smoothie with avocado, banana, frozen berries, oats and plant milk. If you can get your hands on a beetroot juice, even better – it’s great for your liver.” – Rob Hobson, sports nutritionist 

Load Up With B Vitamins

“Alcohol can inhibit the absorption of certain nutrients. As a one-off, this may not be an issue, but if you’re drinking regularly (think several heavy nights over Christmas) it could increase your risk of a deficiency of B vitamins and folic acid, both of which keep you firing on all cylinders. The morning after drinking, take a B complex supplement to put the spring back in your step.” – Rob 

Drink Electrolytes

“Electrolytes are salts and minerals – like sodium, potassium and calcium – that help with certain bodily functions such as energy production and muscle function. Since alcohol is a diuretic, it causes your body to lose these vital minerals, leading to symptoms like fatigue, nausea and diarrhoea. Hydration is essential when hungover, but even better if you can get electrolytes in the form of a sports drink or rehydration sachet. When you’re hydrated, you’re better able to support your organs and elimination pathways. If you struggle with bad hangovers, it could be genetic and a sign you need more detox support. Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables, dry brushing, regular saunas and daily movement will all support your detox pathways.” – Lolade Alakija, nutritional therapist

Try Green Tea

“According to Chinese medicine, overconsumption of alcohol causes an excess of heat in the body and damage to certain organs, resulting in symptoms such as headaches and nausea. To prevent or relieve a hangover, anything that reduces and clears excess heat in the body is beneficial. If you remember, drink a glass or two of concentrated pear juice before indulging in alcohol. This centuries-old remedy is said to have strong anti-inflammatory properties that stimulate the liver. If you have a headache the following morning – especially one that is throbbing in nature and located around the temples – infuse a very strong cup of green tea, using three teabags per cup. This will cool your organs and relieve tension in your temples.” – Emilia Herting, traditional Chinese medicine practitioner & co-founder of Escapada

Stimulate An Acupressure Point

“Feeling a little green the morning after? Acupressure point ‘zusanli’ – also referred to as ‘stomach 36’ – is located four fingers (around three inches) below the kneecap on the outside of your leg between the two bones of your lower leg. The pressure on this point triggers a ‘sharp’ pain. To make it work, apply pressure and massage the point in circular movements with the tip of the thumb for three minutes and repeat on the other leg. If you want someone to do it for you, book in for an acupuncture session – it’s an incredible way to resolve a hangover, flush toxins and release endorphins.” – Emilia 

Skip The Gym

“While exercise may assuage your booze guilt, there is very little evidence it will help a hangover. Your ability to perform depends on how hungover you are feeling, but in most cases it won’t be the nicest experience. Dehydration will make exercise feel infinitely more challenging, as will symptoms like nausea and lack of balance. Research has shown that endurance athletes with a hangover experience significantly more exhaustion when working out compared to non-hungover participants. Take a rest day and if you fancy moving your body, get some fresh air with a gentle walk.” – Rob