Exposing dangerous myths: Your hangover "cure" could be doing more harm than good
Hangover syndrome is a condition that many people will soon experience as they celebrate the end of the year. The consumption of alcohol, often beyond our body's tolerance, is largely responsible. Affected organs strain to function, due to alcohol poisoning, leading to a difficult hangover experience. Is there a quick fix to hangover symptoms? Unfortunately, many of these touted 'miracle remedies' only bring disappointment or further discomfort.
4:16 PM EST, December 28, 2023
Is there a remedy for hangovers?
Ads for hangover remedies are prevalent both online and on television. The truth however, is if a cure had been found for this condition, the discoverer would probably be awarded a Nobel Prize and amass a fortune. While some products may help to endure the hangover, the most effective way to prevent it is simply by not drinking alcohol in the first place.
We should reiterate this point; hangover symptoms can and should be combated, but thoughtfully. Green tea can help lower the raised body temperature during a hangover, and mint can ease nausea. Hydration with water and isotonic drinks can also alleviate discomfort as headaches and other hangover symptoms are largely due to dehydration. Let's discuss which so-called remedies are more harmful than helpful.
The worst hangover remedies
There's probably nothing worse than succumbing to fatty foods while nursing a hangover. This myth remains prevalent, despite being detrimental. Remember, the liver primes the metabolism of alcohol, slowly converting it into acetic acid for excretion in urine. The same liver also plays a crucial role in digesting fats in meals. Thus, eating heavy meals while hungover imposes additional strain on an already burdened liver.
Another widespread myth is drinking coffee as a hangover remedy. Contrary to popular belief, caffeine doesn't help metabolize alcohol nor lower its blood concentration. On the contrary, it can exacerbate anxiety intensifying the discomfort already felt during a hangover. Adding lemon to coffee doesn't help either.
In conclusion, the notorious practice of having a "hair of the dog", is a terrible idea with potential harmful effects on the body. The myth that methanol can be counteracted by consuming ethanol is absurd. The digestion of methanol takes more time than ethanol. Eventually, the hangover symptoms will kick in and could possibly be more severe than without the "hair of the dog".
