9 Things to Do After a Few Too Many Drinks That Could Speed Up Hangover Recovery

There’s an undeniable camaraderie found in the clinking of glasses during a night full of laughter, storytelling, and perhaps one too many toasts. But for many of us, that festive freedom can lead to a harsh morning filled with pounding headaches and queasy stomachs. If you’ve ever found yourself questioning last night’s last cocktail while squinting through the brightness of dawn, you’re in good company.

Let’s delve into some refreshing hangover recovery steps that are not only effective but gentle on your morning-after self. These scientifically-backed steps aim to ease the woes of overindulging and help you emerge from your hangover cocoon ready to face the day.

1. Rehydrate, Rehydrate, Rehydrate!

One of the simplest—and arguably most crucial—steps in hangover recovery is rehydration. Alcohol is a diuretic, meaning it increases urination and consequently, the loss of fluids. This loss is a major contributor to hangover symptoms. When I’ve found myself parched and regretful, a trusty bottle of water is my immediate go-to.

• Why It Works: According to the National Institutes of Health, alcohol inhibits the release of vasopressin, a hormone that ordinarily prevents the kidneys from expelling too much liquid. The result is increased dehydration.

To combat this, start hydrating immediately after your last drink and continue the next morning. Electrolyte-infused beverages or sports drinks can also offer a handy balance of nutrients lost in the previous night’s festivities.

2. Prioritize Rest and Restore

Your body needs time to process and eliminate alcohol, and the best way to aid this process is surprisingly low-tech: sleep. The stages of restorative sleep often get disrupted with alcohol consumption, leading to that familiar grogginess.

• Why It Works: Rest allows the liver time to metabolize alcohol while your body clears toxins.

If snoozing your way through a Sunday afternoon sounds appealing, it’s because your body knows exactly what it needs. Grab an extra hour or two of shut-eye, and let your body undertake its healing process without interruption.

3. Grab a Hearty Breakfast

The combination of protein, fat, and carbohydrate-rich foods helps maintain stable blood sugar levels while providing essential vitamins. Hearty breakfasts like eggs, whole-grain bread, and avocados are compelling choices that bring back energy.

• Why It Works: A study from the University of Southampton suggests that eating a full breakfast can help stabilize blood sugar levels which might have fallen during the night.

When I’ve been in the throes of a hangover, eggs have been my best breakfast companions, laden with cysteine, which may help break down acetaldehyde, the toxic byproduct of alcohol.

4. Hit the Showers

The rejuvenating powers of a hot shower shouldn't be underestimated. Alternating between hot and cold water can stimulate blood circulation and awaken the senses.

• Why It Works: The temperature change encourages blood flow, potentially expediting the removal of toxins.

Try a brisk morning shower, and as the steam clears your head, you’ll find your senses soothingly refreshed.

5. Ginger Up Your System

Our ancestors were onto something with ginger. Known for its anti-nausea properties, ginger can be a soothing remedy for the common hangover sidekick, nausea.

• Why It Works: Research indicates ginger can reduce nausea and vomiting associated with hangovers due to its active compounds like gingerol.

A warm cup of ginger tea or ginger-infused smoothie could be the calming antidote your upset stomach craves.

6. Sweat It Out (Gently)

Exercise may be the last thing on your mind, but light movement like walking or stretching could actually aid recovery by releasing endorphins, boosting your mood, and increasing circulation.

• Why It Works: While intense workouts may be too much for a fragile state, gentle activities stimulate lymphatic flow and help excrete toxins.

Over the years, I have found a brisk walk around the block or a short yoga session revitalizes without overexerting.

7. Try Some Vitamin C

Vitamin C is known for supporting detoxification processes and boosting immune health. A glass of fresh orange juice or a vitamin C supplement might support the liver in metabolizing alcohol.

• Why It Works: Vitamin C enhances glutathione production, which helps in detoxifying liver pathways.

Including fresh fruits or a squeeze of lemon in your morning water can be a small yet potent addition to your hangover arsenal.

8. Pharmaceutical Relief When Needed

While natural remedies are wonderful, sometimes your hangover calls for reinforcements in the form of over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen. However, it’s best to avoid acetaminophen (Tylenol) as it burdens the liver further.

• Why It Works: NSAIDs like ibuprofen relieve pain and inflammation, providing swift headache relief.

It’s a smart move to accompany these with food and water to avoid stomach irritation. Remember, moderation and dosage are key.

9. Sip on a Cup of Herbal Tea

There’s a reason why a warm cup of tea feels like a comforting embrace on a dreary day—herbal teas like chamomile or peppermint offer soothing relief for headache and nausea.

• Why It Works: The natural compounds in many herbal teas assist relaxation and digestion, addressing multiple hangover symptoms without the calorie load.

Between sips, give yourself a moment to relax, unwind, and remember that happier days are ahead.

The Keep-It Habits

1. H2O on the Go: Always keep a water bottle within reach to remind yourself to hydrate during any event.
2. Ginger Teas for Great Mornings: Stock up on ginger or peppermint teas for instant nausea relief.
3. Acrimony-Free Exercise: Integrate light morning exercises or gentle yoga stretches to combat sluggishness.
4. Balanced Breakfasts at the Ready: Have easy-to-make breakfast options like eggs and fruit on hand for nutrient-packed starts.
5. Vitamin C Comebacks: Enhance your routine with vitamin C-rich foods or supplements to support the liver.

Sunshine Before the Storm

It’s easy to feel like an outcast when the cold, hard light of a hungover morning catches us off guard, but a few practical steps can guide you back to your vibrant self. Enlisting these tried-and-true recovery methods can make the transition back to normal life a little smoother and ensure that your next sip of celebration is just as enjoyable as the first.

Remember, kindness—especially towards oneself—is the best recovery strategy of them all. Here’s to making smarter, healthier choices that will have you embracing all that life’s joyful moments have to offer with balance and grace. Cheers to that!