5 dos and 5 don'ts to successfully fight a hangover

A hangover is a series of unpleasant symptoms that occur after excessive alcohol consumption, including headaches, nausea, dizziness, fatigue and dehydration. It occurs because alcohol deprives the body of water and nutrients, disrupts sleep, and accumulates toxins as it breaks down. Several factors can affect the severity of a hangover. Read on as we share a list of dos and don'ts.

5 doses

1. Stay hydrated

Alcohol causes dehydration because it acts as a diuretic. Therefore, it is important to replenish lost fluids. Drinking water helps restore balance to your body and flush out toxins. For added benefits, drink water with a pinch of salt or an electrolyte solution to replace lost salts and minerals.

2. Eat a nutritious breakfast

A balanced meal in the morning helps stabilize blood sugar levels, which are often low after a night of drinking. Foods rich in complex carbohydrates, proteins and healthy fats provide you with the energy and nutrients your body needs to recover.

3. Give yourself some rest

Alcohol disrupts sleep patterns and often leaves you feeling groggy and tired. If possible, give yourself extra time to rest and recover. Sleep is important for the body to repair itself and restore energy levels.

4. Try ginger or peppermint tea

Ginger is known for its ability to relieve nausea, a common hangover symptom, while peppermint tea helps soothe stomach upsets and relieve headaches. Drinking a warm cup of ginger or peppermint tea not only hydrates but also relieves digestive discomfort.

5. Take a painkiller

If you suffer from severe headaches or body aches, you may want to consider taking over-the-counter painkillers such as ibuprofen or aspirin. However, be careful not to take these on an empty stomach, as some medications can further irritate your stomach lining, especially when combined with alcohol.

5 don'ts

1. Avoid the dog's hair

The “hair of the dog” method – drinking more alcohol to cure a hangover – only prolongs recovery. While it may temporarily relieve symptoms by numbing the aftereffects, it ultimately delays the detoxification process and worsens dehydration.

2. Don't skip meals

Skipping meals when you have a hangover can worsen symptoms such as nausea and weakness. Your body needs energy to function and recover. So try to eat something light and nutritious, even if you're not particularly hungry.

3. Avoid caffeine

Although you may be tempted to drink a cup of coffee to combat fatigue, caffeine can dehydrate you even further and irritate your stomach, worsening hangover symptoms. Instead of coffee, opt for herbal teas, coconut water, or electrolyte drinks that hydrate and provide gentle energy.

4. Don't indulge in greasy food

Many people crave greasy, fried foods when they have a hangover, but these can actually make symptoms worse. Greasy, greasy meals put a strain on your digestive system, which is already working hard to process alcohol.

5. Avoid intense physical activity

While light activities like walking can help clear your head, avoid intense exercise when you're hungover. Heavy exercise can dehydrate you even more and put strain on your body that is already in recovery mode. Instead, focus on gentle movements or yoga that promote relaxation and recovery without putting too much strain on your body.

Follow these tips and tricks to successfully combat a hangover.

Disclaimer: This content, including advice, provides general information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. For more information, always consult a specialist or your doctor. NDTV assumes no responsibility for this information.