A Dietitian's Favorite Hangover Remedies
I know it, you know it, and apparently Google knows it too: of all the days in the year you could be hung-over, New Years Day ranks number one. So in today's post, I want to share with you some of my favorite hangover cures and natural remedies for hangovers using nothing but good quality nutrition incase tonight you and your squad go from 0 to 100 real quick.
TODAY
Eat nutrient-balanced meals with plenty of greens, fruits, and vegetables. Do not "save your calories" for drinking later tonight as this only creates more problems tomorrow. Be sure that your food today includes healthy carbohydrates, but also (maybe even especially) proteins and healthy fats. Drink plenty of water.
TONIGHT
The best thing to avoid a hangover may be to sip smartly to begin with. That means you may want to consider sipping slowly to reduce the overall amount of alcohol you have. At the same time, aim to drink one glass of water in between your spiked beverages to stay optimally hydrated (alcohol actually dehydrates you, so water is especially needed!). Drink an extra glass of water before bed.
TOMORROW
- If you wake up with the dreaded hangover, be sure you hydrate. Water, herbal water, infused water - all are a definite go here. Don't go for the Bloody Mary or Mimosa, which will only delay your hangover and may make it worse.
- Get your vitamins and minerals from real, whole foods. Whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, contain essential electrolytes that help get your body back to normal. Important to note is to consume enough potassium which will help get the water where it needs to go...inside your cells! My favorite potassium providers include drinks like coconut water, or foods like bananas, sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, and dark leafy greens.
- Start up a healthy detoxification process with dark leafy greens (like kale, BroccoLeaf, or spinach) and other colorful produce.
- Aim for whole foods sources of vitamin B6 like chickpeas (garbanzo beans), salmon, eggs, potatoes, and turkey, which help support healthy adrenal function.
- Avoid those post-alcohol hunger cravings by choosing healthy proteins and fat for breakfast (not just carbs, like your night before!). My personal favorite breakfast includes an egg omelet/scramble made with fresh leafy greens, tomatoes, mushrooms, green peppers, and avocado...with, of course, a glass of water and a mug of warm herbal tea or greens juice on the side.
Here's to a safe night, a calm tomorrow, and a Happy New Year!