Did you wake up in the morning with a heavy head? You are not alone! Quick relief starts with water, salt and a light meal. Many people forget that a hangover and the effects of red wine can be particularly strong – red wine contains substances that worsen the feeling of being unwell. If you want to feel better, avoid red wine, drink slowly and give your body a rest. Don’t let the myths fool you – focus on what really works!
Important Points
- Drink plenty of water after the party and add high-quality salt to the water to restore your body's minerals and fluid balance.
- Support your gut microflora with probiotics by eating yogurt, kefir, or sauerkraut to improve digestion and mood.
- Avoid red wine, as it contains substances that can worsen a hangover and make you feel worse.
- Drink slowly and take water breaks in between so your body can process the alcohol better and the hangover will be milder.
- Eat light food before and during the party so that the alcohol is absorbed more slowly and the hangover is not as severe.
- Don't trust hangover cures or miracle products, because the best helpers are water, food, and rest.
- A positive mindset and supportive company will help you cope better with a hangover and reduce discomfort.
- Listen to your body and choose your drinks wisely, preferring lighter and lighter alcoholic beverages.
Rebuild your stomach army to fight anxiety
Alcohol wreaks havoc on your gut microflora
Have you noticed that after a party you feel not only tired but also anxious? It's no coincidence. Alcohol affects your body more than you think. When you drink, you destroy the beneficial bacteria in your gut. These bacteria help you digest, support your immune system, and even affect your mood.
If your microflora is damaged, your body can react in several ways:
- The stomach may open up or become stuck.
- You may feel more anxious or even depressed.
- Your immunity drops and you feel weaker.
Did you know?
Trillions of bacteria live in your gut. They affect your brain more than you think. When your microflora takes a hit, your mood can also take a hit.
Alcohol, especially in large quantities, makes the intestinal lining more permeable. This means that harmful substances can more easily enter the bloodstream. Your body has to work harder to protect itself. This is why you often feel anxious and tired during a hangover.
Solution: Support your gut with probiotics
The good news is that you can rebuild your gut army! Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that help restore your microflora. By including them in your diet, you support both digestion and mental well-being.
Here are some simple steps to help your stomach:
- Eat probiotic-rich foods – yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi are good choices.
- Avoid excess sugar and processed foods – they can feed bad bacteria.
- Drink enough water – water helps beneficial bacteria function better.
- You can try probiotic supplements. – you can find various capsules and powders at the pharmacy.
💡 Tip:
If you know you have a party coming up, start taking probiotics the day before. This will give your stomach a better chance of holding on.
When you support your gut, you’ll feel better faster. Your mood will improve, your stomach will function normally, and a hangover won’t seem so scary anymore. Don’t forget – a strong gut army will help you cope with a hangover better!
The weapon is salt and minerals
Alcohol is a diuretic
Have you noticed that you go to the bathroom more often after a party? It's no coincidence. Alcohol acts as a diuretic. This means that your body loses more fluid than usual. You may drink several glasses of wine or beer, but alcohol actually dehydrates your body. As a result, you feel dry mouth, headache, and fatigue in the morning.
When your body loses water, you also lose important minerals. Salt, potassium, and magnesium leave your body in your urine. These minerals help keep your nervous system healthy, support muscle function, and keep your blood pressure stable. If you don't have enough of them, you'll feel weak, have muscle cramps, or even have a pounding heart.
Did you know?
Each glass of alcohol can remove up to 100 ml of extra fluid from your body. This means that even if you drink water, it may not be enough if you are missing out on minerals.
If you don't replenish your minerals, your hangover can last longer. You'll feel like your head is pounding, your body is weak, and your mood is at a standstill. That's why it's important to think not only about water, but also about minerals.
Solution: Add a pinch of high-quality salt to your water
This is where salt comes in. Adding a pinch of high-quality salt to your glass of water helps your body replenish lost minerals. Salt helps your body retain water better and restores electrolyte balance. This means you’ll feel better faster.
How to do it?
- Have a glass of clean water.
- Add a pinch of sea salt or Himalayan salt to it.
- Stir and drink slowly.
Avoid regular table salt, which often contains additives. Sea salt or Himalayan salt contain more natural minerals that support the body's recovery.
💡 Tip:
If you feel like you have a headache and are tired, try salt water before reaching for a painkiller. This is often enough to make you feel better.
You can also use electrolyte powders, which you can find at the pharmacy. They contain potassium and magnesium in addition to salt. If you have a banana or avocado at home, eat them - they also help increase mineral levels.
| Mineral | Why important? | Where to get it? |
|---|---|---|
| Salt (sodium) | Retains water in the body, supports nerves | Sea salt, Himalayan salt |
| Potassium | Reduces cramps, supports the heart | Banana, avocado |
| Magnesium | Relaxes muscles, soothes | Nuts, seeds |
If you make sure your body gets enough water and minerals, you’ll recover from a hangover faster. The next time you feel light-headed and your mouth is dry, try salt water – it could be your secret weapon!
Hangover and the effects of red wine
You've probably heard that red wine can make a hangover worse than other drinks. But why is that? Hangovers and the effects of red wine are closely linked to the chemicals found in wine and the specifics of your body. Let's take a closer look at what's really going on.
Congeners
When you drink red wine, you get not only alcohol, but also congeners. These are byproducts that are formed during the fermentation of alcohol. They are found in red wine in higher amounts than in white wine or vodka. Congeners give the wine its flavor and color, but your body also has to break them down. This puts a strain on your liver and can make a hangover worse. Hangovers and the effects of red wine are especially noticeable if your body can't process these substances quickly.
Tip: When choosing a drink, opt for light, clear alcohols. They contain fewer congeners and can ease a hangover.
Quercetin
Red wine also contains quercetin. This is a natural antioxidant found in grapes. For some, quercetin can be beneficial, but for others it can cause headaches or even allergy-like symptoms. If you are sensitive to quercetin, you will feel more tired and have a headache during a hangover. Hangovers and the effects of red wine can therefore be very individual - some people tolerate red wine well, while others feel bad after a glass.
Sulphides
Sulfites are substances added to wine to help it last longer. They can cause headaches, nausea, or difficulty breathing in some people. If you are sensitive to sulfides, hangovers and the effects of red wine can be particularly unpleasant. Sulfites are not only found in red wine, but they are often found in higher concentrations than in other beverages.
For whom is red wine particularly risky?
- If you have asthma or allergies, red wine may cause more discomfort.
- If you know that your body breaks down alcohol slowly, you will feel the hangover more strongly.
- If you are sensitive to sulfides or quercetin, even a small amount of red wine can cause a severe hangover.
The effects of red wine on hangovers depend a lot on your genes and health. If you find that red wine always makes you sick, it's worth skipping it or trying a smaller amount. Listen to your body and choose a drink that works for you.
Myths
Mixing drinks
You've probably heard the saying, "Don't mix drinks, or you'll get a worse hangover." This is one of the most common hangover myths. In fact, there's no scientific evidence that mixing drinks causes a worse hangover. It's actually the amount of alcohol you drink that causes a hangover, not whether you drink beer, wine, and vodka all at once.
When you mix different drinks, you often tend to drink more because the flavors change and you lose track of how much you've already had. This is where the real danger lies. Your body has to process more alcohol, which puts a strain on your liver. If you drink slowly and moderately, it doesn't matter whether you choose one drink or several different ones.
💡 Tip:
If you want to avoid a hangover, watch the amount rather than what you mix. Be aware of how much you've already drunk, and take water breaks in between.
Summary:
- Mixing drinks itself does not cause a hangover.
- More alcohol = more hangover.
- Keep an eye on how much you drink, not just what you drink.
Medications
There are many products on the market that promise quick hangover relief. Pills, powders, drinks – all claim to help you feel better in the morning. Unfortunately, most of these promises are not backed by science. Most so-called hangover cures don’t work any better than plain water, food, and rest.
Some people reach for painkillers or even prescription drugs right after a party. This can be dangerous. Some medications, such as acetaminophen, can damage the liver when taken with alcohol. Ibuprofen can irritate a stomach that is already sensitive after drinking alcohol.
| Medicine or product | Does that help? | Dangers or side effects |
|---|---|---|
| Paracetamol | Does not relieve hangover | May damage the liver |
| Ibuprofen | Relieves pain, but temporarily | May irritate the stomach. |
| "Hangover powders" | No proven effect | Waste of money |
| Electrolytes | Helps restore fluid | Usually safe |
⚠️ Please note:
There is no miracle cure that will completely cure a hangover. The best helpers are water, food, and rest.
If you want to feel better, focus on simple things. Drink water, eat light foods, and give your body time to recover. Don't rely on medications or miracle products. Your body just needs time to get rid of the alcohol.
Psychological factors
Expectations
Have you ever noticed that sometimes you can feel a hangover before it actually starts? Your expectations play a big role here. If you think you're going to feel bad after a party, your body may react accordingly. The mind and body work closely together. When you mentally prepare yourself for a tough morning, you'll notice every little discomfort much more acutely.
Expectations also affect how quickly you recover. If you believe that a hangover will last all day, it may. However, if you think that you can handle it and focus on recovery, you will often feel better faster. Your attitude matters!
💡 Tip:
Try to think positively in the morning. Tell yourself, "Today I will recover quickly." It may seem simple, but sometimes a small change in mindset can help.
Here are some ways to better manage your expectations:
- Don't read horror stories about hangovers on the internet.
- Focus on what you can do yourself to feel better.
- Speak to yourself in a friendly, non-critical manner.
If you give yourself permission to rest and recover, you'll notice that a hangover won't seem so scary anymore. Your thoughts affect your body more than you think.
Social impact
Friends and company have a bigger impact on you than you might think. If everyone around you is drinking heavily and talking about how bad things are going to be tomorrow, it's easy to get caught up in that mindset. Social pressure can make you drink more than you really want to. Sometimes you feel like you have to keep up with others, even when your body tells you it's okay.
Social influence doesn't end with the night of the party. Your friends' attitude can also affect how you feel in the morning. If everyone is complaining, you start to notice how bad you feel more. But if someone says they're feeling good, it can also have a positive effect on you.
Please note:
You choose how you respond. You don't always have to go with the pace of others. Dare to say "no" or have a drink in between.
Here are some tips on how to turn social influence to your advantage:
- Find a friend who supports moderate drinking.
- Agree on how much you will drink before the party.
- Dare to take breaks and listen to your body.
If you know that social pressure is affecting you, plan ahead. Think about how you can stay true to yourself. Your health is the most important thing! 😊
Practical tips
Slow drinking
Have you noticed that drinking slowly helps you feel better? If you take your time and enjoy each sip, your body will let you know when it's time to pull the brakes. Drinking too quickly often means you don't realize until too late how much you've already consumed.
- Take breaks between sips.
- Drink some water.
- Listen to your body's signals.
💡 Tip:
Put down your glass if you feel like you're rushing. Talk to friends, dance, or eat something in between. That way, you won't be tempted to drink too quickly.
If you drink slowly, your body has time to process the alcohol better. You will have a smaller hangover or no hangover at all.
Light drinks
Not all drinks affect the body the same. Light drinks, such as white wine, cider, or clear vodka, contain fewer congeners and other byproducts. These substances make a hangover worse.
- Choose light drinks.
- Avoid dark and sweet cocktails.
- Keep track of how much alcohol is in the drink.
| Drink type | Hangover risk |
|---|---|
| White wine | Low |
| Beer | Average |
| Red wine | High |
| Dark rum | High |
⚠️ Please note:
Dark drinks, like red wine or whiskey, are broken down more slowly by the body. If you choose a lighter drink, you'll feel better the next day.
If you want to avoid a hangover, always choose a lighter option. This way you give your body a chance to recover faster.
Eating
An empty stomach and alcohol don't mix. If you eat before drinking or during a party, the alcohol will be absorbed more slowly. Your body will have time to adjust and the hangover won't hit you as hard.
- Eat a proper meal before the party.
- Choose foods that are higher in fat and protein.
- You would snack on nuts, cheese, or sandwiches during the party.
🍏 Tip:
If you feel hungry, take a break and eat something. Even a small snack will help!
Eating helps keep your blood sugar stable. This will prevent you from feeling weak and having a headache. Don't skip meals, even if you don't feel like eating. Your body will thank you the next morning!
Conversations with friends
Have you ever noticed that good company always makes a party better? Talking to friends not only lifts your spirits, but also helps prevent or alleviate a hangover. When you talk to others, you focus more on the moment and less on drinking. You don't rush to refill your glass because you enjoy the conversation.
Here are some practical reasons why connecting with friends helps:
- You slow down your drinking. When you talk, you automatically take fewer sips. Your body has more time to process the alcohol.
- You share experiences. Friends can share their tips for avoiding hangovers. You might learn something new and useful.
- You support each other. If someone says it will help, it's easier to stick to your own boundaries. Friends can remind you when it's time to drink water or eat something.
- You feel better. Good conversation reduces stress and anxiety, which can worsen a hangover.
💬 Tip:
If you feel like you've had too much to drink, tell a friend. Together it's easier to make better choices.
Try these tricks at your next party:
- Start the evening with a conversation, not with the first drink.
- Ask your friends how they are doing and really listen.
- In the meantime, joke around or play board games - that way you'll forget about refilling your glass.
- Be brave to say it if you feel it will help. Your friends will understand you.
It's easier to stay in control and stay on track with friends. You never have to be alone - a good conversation can be the best hangover cure! 😊
Health effects
Heart disease
Have you ever wondered how a hangover and alcohol affect your heart? Every time you drink more than usual, you put your heart to the test. Alcohol can make your heart beat irregularly. Sometimes you feel your heart pounding or even have chest pain. These are signs that your heart is working overtime.
If you have a severe hangover, your body may be dehydrated. Your blood becomes thicker and your heart has to work harder to pump it around. In the long run, heavy drinking can increase your risk of heart disease. Heart attacks and arrhythmias can occur at a younger age if you don't take care of your health.
💡 Tip:
If you notice your heart beating fast or feel pain, rest and drink water. If symptoms persist, seek medical attention.
Blood pressure
Alcohol also affects your blood pressure. When you drink, your blood pressure can rise. Sometimes you feel dizzy or lightheaded. These are signs that your blood pressure is too high. When you have a hangover, your blood pressure can fluctuate. In some people, it actually drops too low, especially if you have been vomiting a lot or had diarrhea.
Long-term alcohol consumption can cause persistently high blood pressure. This means that the heart and blood vessels are put under more strain. High blood pressure increases the risk of heart attack and stroke.
| Symptom | Possible cause |
|---|---|
| Headache | High blood pressure |
| Dizziness | Low or fluctuating blood pressure |
| Heart palpitations | Increased blood pressure |
⚠️ Please note:
If you already have high blood pressure, be extra careful with alcohol. Even a small amount can affect how you feel.
Stroke
Did you know that alcohol can increase your risk of stroke? A stroke occurs when the brain doesn't get enough blood. Alcohol changes the composition of the blood and can cause blood clots to form. If you drink a lot and often, the risk of blood vessels becoming blocked increases.
During a hangover, the body is often dehydrated. The blood becomes thicker and moves more slowly. This creates a favorable environment for blood clots to form. Stroke can strike unexpectedly, even in young people if risk factors are present.
❗ Important:
If you feel your arm or leg on one side of your body becoming weak, your speech becoming slurred, or your face drooping, call for help immediately. These could be signs of a stroke.
Alcohol and hangovers affect your heart, blood pressure, and brain more than you think. If you care about your health, choose moderation. Your body will thank you later!
The best way to avoid a hangover is moderation and awareness. If a hangover does catch you by surprise, these five tips will help you the fastest. Hangovers and the effects of red wine can be different for everyone, so listen to your body. Share your experiences with friends and learn from your own and others' mistakes. Choose lighter drinks, drink water, eat properly. Prevention is always easier than cure!
FAQ
Can a hangover be completely avoided?
You can reduce your risk of a hangover by drinking in moderation, eating before the party, and choosing lighter drinks. You can't completely avoid it if you drink a lot of alcohol. Your body needs time to recover.
How long does a hangover usually last?
Most hangovers last 12-24 hours. Sometimes the feeling can last longer, especially if you haven't slept much or drunk a lot. Rest, drink water, and give your body time.
Do “hangover powders” or vitamins help?
Most hangover powders don't provide quick relief. Water, salt, and a light diet will help more. Vitamins can help with recovery, but there is no miracle cure. Don't waste your money on promises that seem too good to be true.
Why do some people get hangovers more easily than others?
Your genes, age, gender, and health all affect how quickly your body breaks down alcohol. Some people feel bad after just a small amount. Listen to your body and don't compare yourself to others.
Does exercise or a sauna help with a hangover?
Saunas and exercise can be dangerous during a hangover because your body is already dehydrated. It's better to rest, drink water, and eat something light. You can exercise later when you feel better.
When should I see a doctor?
If you experience severe chest pain, difficulty breathing, confusion, or loss of consciousness, seek help immediately. These may be signs of a serious health problem. Don't wait until you feel something is very wrong.
Does coffee help with a hangover?
Coffee may give you a short-term boost of energy, but it won't cure a hangover. Coffee will dehydrate you even more. Instead, drink water or salt water to help rehydrate.