By Kejal Sheth
Sunlight is streaming in through the window. You try to open your eyes but there’s a heavy pounding in your head. You feel like throwing up. You have no energy to face the world, and you hate yourself for drinking so much last night. It was a great party, and you really enjoyed it; maybe a bit too much! But there’s always a price to pay and the universe has punished you with the worst hangover ever!
You may be mulling over whether to participate in the next day’s festivities and fun or stay back in your room, close the curtains and sulk.
Usually hangovers subside within a few hours – 24 hours being the maximum so far. Although there is no absolute cure for a hangover, there are a few things you can do to reduce the symptoms.
Tips to Bust Late Night Party Hangover
Rest Well
Yes, rest! Not simply because you deserve it after last night but because lack of sleep can most certainly worsen your hangover. So, it’s better for you to go right back to sleep till at least 11 am.
Hydrate Yourself
A huge part of why you feel so terrible during a hangover is because you’re dehydrated. So drink lots of water and re-hydrate. It is best to do that is while you’re drinking (have one drink and follow it with one glass of water).
Eat Something
Do not drink on an empty stomach. It increases the rate of alcohol absorbed in the bloodstream. Carbohydrate-rich foods can slow down this absorption rate. Similarly, have a filling meal once you’re awake. Do not stay hungry for long. Your blood sugar levels may be low and contribute to aggravating the symptoms of your hangover. A big healthy meal will increase your blood sugar level and help you feel better.
Moderation is Key
You already know you’re most probably going to drink at the party. So, the best way to avoid a hangover is to stay within your limit and drink in moderation. Also, try to follow the one-for-one rule (one glass of water after one drink). You’ll not feel so terrible the next morning.
Avoid Dark Drinks
Vodka and gin are less likely to give you a bad hangover. This is because they have exceedingly small number of congeners- a by-product of fermentation. Dark-coloured drinks have high amount of congeners which worsen your hangover symptoms.
No Hair of the Dog
Did a friend suggest that they drink more to get over their hangover and that it is effective? Alcohol is the reason you’re feeling like this. Adding more of it to your system is simply going to worsen your hangover.
Medication
You can take some pills to ease your headache. But do not take any medicine with paracetamol in it. Alcohol plus paracetamol is just recipe for more trouble! Take an antacid if you’re feeling nauseous. It is always advisable to check with your doctor beforehand. Also read the label for any warnings.
Want to know how to prevent a hangover completely? Unfortunately, the only answer is- don’t drink! After all, prevention is better than cure.