Written by Gail Bonnici
Consumed too many Big G’s glasses last night? Those shameless, mysterious, Footloose pitchers got the better of you? It’s okay! It’s well deserved after a week of never-ending lectures, assignments, and possibly even working hours. You’re probably suffering the consequences now and feel… well; shit. But we’re here to help!
Food and beverages that may help beat a hangover
Perfectly fitting for the time of year of endless, staff parties, boozy secret santas, and ‘ikliet tal-klassi’ full of wine.
- Bananas – alcohol blocks the production of a hormone that helps your body hold on to water, which is why you’re constantly going to the bathroom. This causes dehydration and loss of potassium and sodium ions. Bananas are rich in potassium and so replenishes your body.
- Avocado – they are also thought to elevate your potassium ion levels. However, they protect against liver injury as well, which, we gather, isn’t in its best state after last night.
- Nuts – apart from the cells losing potassium and sodium ions, magnesium ions are also depleted from cells. Due to their high magnesium content, nuts could help.
- Honey – it has been found that the fructose in honey has the ability to increase the speed at which your body gets rid of alcohol. Unfortunately, Jack Daniel’s Honey does not fool a hangover, however.
- Sweet potatoes – contain vitamin A which helps combat the inflammation caused by the alcohol, and also magnesium and potassium ions. Sweet potato would be a better alternative to McDonald’s fries as a late night/early morning snack! Trust us, its worth the effort.
- Coffee – if this is part of your daily morning routine, you would most definitely need one today! Coffee helps decrease inflammation but more importantly, will make you more alert and feel less fatigued.
- Meat – you’re probably very hungry so a steak or good piece of meat sounds good. It is actually a perfect idea as your body is also deprived from amino acids. Meat contains a high level of protein, which is broken into amino acids that helps your body handle the hangover better.
- Water – no brainer right? Rehydrate!
- Watermelon – Working hand in hand yet oh so tasty! Apart from doing a great job in rehydration, it is rich in L-citrulline which helps increase blood flow.
We hope that this food and beverage guide will get you through your hangover as soon as possible. Maybe today’s hangover will put you off drinking too much next time! (but probably not) Save your liver and ions stores!
MHSA does not endorse binge drinking and encourages moderation.
cover image: source
