I've got bad news for those of you who believe that drinking “liquor before beer” mitigates hangovers. German scientists have debunked this popular college student hypothesis, proving that the hooch headache hits the same no matter which order one imbibes their beverages. The research specifically addressed several popular sayings: “Beer before liquor, never been sicker”; “Grape or grain, but never the twain [never beer and wine on the same night]; Beer before wine and you’ll feel fine.” I remember those from my time at Iowa State. Maybe you've heard similar sayings at University of Iowa. Since time immemorial, college revelers and other boozers have touted these mantras as a way to binge drink sans suffering a hangover. Unfortunately, researchers have found that alcohol is alcohol...and the more you drink, the better your chances for a hangover. So...what can you do?
Drink water or liquids: One of the primary culprits behind a post-Super Bowl hangover is dehydration. The combination of celebratory drinks and the excitement of the game can lead to a significant loss of fluids. Begin your Monday recovery by rehydrating. Water, sports drinks and electrolyte-rich beverages can help replenish the fluids lost during the festivities. A good rule of thumb is to drink a glass of water between every alcoholic beverage, as Fox News Digital has previously reported.
Consider balanced nutrition: Support your body’s recovery with a balanced and nutritious meal. While there’s no cure for a hangover, some foods can be a big help with the effects the day after. Opt for foods that are easy on the stomach, such as whole grains, lean proteins and fruits. Eggs contain an amino acid called cysteine that can break down acetaldehyde, a byproduct of your liver’s breakdown of ethanol. They are also high in B vitamins, which studies have previously shown can help with the symptoms. Bananas, meanwhile, can help bring your potassium levels back up to normal.
Take your vitamins: People with lowered levels of vitamin B23 and zinc suffer more severe hangovers, according to a recent study from the Netherlands’ Utrecht University. These two substances are commonly found in meat, suggesting that Super Bowl Sunday may not be the best time to try going vegan.
Allow your body time to process the alcohol: A common myth is that you need to drink more alcohol the next morning, or later in the evening, to decrease the effects of alcohol. However, after following the prior steps, people should allow their bodies to process the alcohol by cutting themselves off earlier in the night. “The liver metabolizes alcohol at a very constant rate, approximately one drink per hour,” according to the National Library of Medicine.
Rest and recover: During a hangover, fatigue will be a major and persistent symptom that will be hard to shake off the next day unless you get plenty of sleep. If possible, take short naps or allocate time for a good night’s sleep on Monday to help your body recover from the physical and emotional strains of the Super Bowl festivities. An adult should receive at least seven or more hours of sleep per night, says the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Exercise gently: If you’re the type who feels better after sweating out the remnants of a big night, it could be the perfect remedy for beating those Monday blues. While it might be tempting to stay sedentary, engaging in gentle exercise can aid in your recovery. A short walk or light stretching can help boost your circulation, alleviate muscle tension and contribute to an overall sense of well-being.
Use caffeine in moderation: Many people turn to coffee to kick-start their Mondays, but excessive caffeine intake can worsen dehydration. Make sure you’re consuming caffeine in moderation and consider alternating with water to maintain hydration levels.
Try over-the-counter remedies, but follow directions carefully: Over-the-counter remedies, such as pain relievers and antacids, can provide relief from headache or stomach discomfort. However, it’s essential to use these medications as directed — and to consult with a health care professional if you have any concerns or preexisting conditions.