Experts Debunk 5 Holiday Hangover Myths That Don’t Work
The holiday season often leads to festive overindulgence, resulting in a common post-celebration issue: hangovers. Many people turn to popular remedies advertised on social media, but experts warn that these purported cures are largely ineffective. According to Dr. Hillary Lin, a physician based in New York City, most hangover treatments fail to address how the body processes alcohol, treating the liver incorrectly. “Most hangover ‘cures’ fail because they treat the liver like a sponge rather than a chemical processing plant that it is,” she explained to Fox News Digital.
Understanding that a hangover is primarily the body’s reaction to the toxic byproducts of alcohol can help clarify why no instant fix exists. “You can’t biohack a hangover once it starts,” Dr. Lin stated.
Debunking Common Myths
Five prevalent myths surrounding hangover remedies have been scrutinized by experts, revealing the real approach to recovery.
1. **‘Hair of the Dog’**
The idea of consuming more alcohol to alleviate hangover symptoms, known as “hair of the dog,” is misleading. Dr. Lin pointed out that it merely postpones discomfort, as it does not resolve the underlying dehydration, inflammation, or the toxic byproducts created by alcohol. Alexa Ryan, a neurotherapist and clinical dietitian nutritionist from California, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that such practices increase the liver’s workload.
2. **Greasy Breakfasts**
Contrary to popular belief, a greasy breakfast does not absorb alcohol and can actually hinder recovery. Dr. Lin mentioned that by the time one wakes up, the alcohol has already exited the stomach. “There is literally nothing left to ‘soak up,’” she said. Instead, she recommends consuming foods like eggs, bananas, and nuts to support recovery, although scientific evidence on their effectiveness is limited.
3. **Coffee and Lemon Water**
Many individuals reach for coffee or lemon water in hopes of flushing out alcohol, yet this approach is ineffective. Ryan explained that by the time hangover symptoms manifest, alcohol has already disrupted sleep and affected the body’s systems. “Coffee and lemon juice don’t accelerate alcohol metabolism,” she noted. In fact, coffee can lead to increased dehydration and heightened anxiety, worsening symptoms.
4. **Patches and Supplements**
The effectiveness of patches and supplements varies, with most acting too late in the recovery process. Some probiotics are emerging as potentially beneficial, as they target and break down acetaldehyde in the gut before it enters the bloodstream. Dr. Lin suggests drinking a high-quality electrolyte mix before bed as a more effective strategy.
5. **Sweat-It-Out Exercise**
Exercising to “sweat out” alcohol is another myth that experts strongly advise against. Ryan emphasized that the liver metabolizes alcohol at a steady rate regardless of physical activity. “Exercising while hungover can worsen dehydration, increase dizziness or nausea, and place extra strain on the body,” she cautioned.
Real Solutions for Recovery
Despite numerous claims about cures, experts agree that there is no universal remedy for hangovers. The most effective strategy involves moderation in alcohol consumption. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), binge drinking is defined as consuming five or more standard drinks for men and four for women on a single occasion. Anderson highlights the importance of alternating alcoholic drinks with water or non-alcoholic beverages.
Ultimately, health experts stress that no level of alcohol consumption is entirely devoid of risk. Even low levels can elevate the potential for health issues, including cancer. When hangovers do occur, the best recovery methods include rest, hydration, and time. Ryan advises prioritizing fluids with electrolytes, consuming a balanced meal, and allowing the liver ample time to detoxify.
In summary, while the holiday season may lead to celebratory indulgence, understanding the science behind hangovers can help individuals make more informed choices about their health and recovery strategies.
