It’s the day after St.Patrick’s Day, or any other celebration, and you wake up with a headache, upset stomach, your mouth is dry and you’re feeling down…
It’s official…you have a “hangover”. No matter what you do your body needs rehydrating, rest and sleep to recover. You need to nourish your body with vitamins and liquids. Here are some tips;
1. Sleep
Your body needs to recover so sleep is your best option. Try to stay in bed if you have the luxury…
2. Liquids
The symptoms you’re feeling post-drinking are signs of dehydration caused by the alcohol. That’s why you must rehydrate yourself by drinking a lot of water when you get up. Rehydrating your body is the key to recovering from the hangover, this cannot be stressed enough. You can even put some lemon in your water because it’ll help soothe your stomach and will add vitamin C. When drinking water, avoid water that is extremely cold or hot; drink water at room temperature. Also orange juice is a good option because of its vitamin C content or you can try coconut juice, which will replenish your electrolytes.
3. Coffee
Even though you feel like coffee is your cure, caffeine is a diuretic and it will cause further dehydration of your body. Also milk and other dairy products are not a good idea for an upset stomach and nausea. Stay away from them.
4. Food
A couple slices of plain toast or a few crackers can be a good idea. Carbs will help bring up your blood sugar levels. Or have a piece of fruit, which will refresh and give you the energy you need.
5. Exercise
Sweat it out… Endorphins released can elevate your mood and detoxify your body and make you feel better…clearer. Just be sure you drink lots of water as not to get dehydrated.
If you want to prevent a “hangover” then try to eat a meal, or at least a snack, before or while you are drinking. Water before bed will also help wash out the alcohol from your system, and drinking water between drinks is also a great way to prevent the hangover effects.
Head on over to my recipe tab and make yourself a Liver Detox Shake. You’ll be feeling better in no time.
In good health,
Cheryl Wahl, RHN, Personal Trainer
