Why Drinking Water Helps Prevent and Recover from Hangovers
New Year’s Eve is a reminder for responsible drinking practices throughout the year.
Many of us have experienced the dreaded hangover — headaches, fatigue, nausea, and general discomfort. One commonly recommended remedy is to drink plenty of water. But how exactly does water help in preventing and alleviating hangovers?
Dehydration is a Significant Contributor
Alcohol is a diuretic, meaning it increases urine production, leading to dehydration. Dehydration is a significant contributor to hangover symptoms such as thirst, dizziness, and headaches. By drinking water alongside alcoholic beverages and continuing to hydrate afterward, you can help counteract this dehydration and reduce some of the severity of these symptoms.
Drinking Water is Not a Cure-All
However, staying hydrated doesn’t address all the factors involved. Research confirms that dehydration is not the sole cause of hangovers, and simply drinking water may not prevent symptoms like nausea and fatigue.
Other Strategies
Other strategies can help hangover recovery. Consuming warm food can help maintain blood sugar levels, and getting adequate sleep allows your body to recover more effectively. Taking a brisk walk (get up and out of the house) also makes a difference. You’ll need to drink plenty of water all day and schedule a power nap in the afternoon.
Preventing and Recovering from Too Much Alcohol
Drinking water helps reduce some hangover effects by addressing dehydration. However, it’s not a cure-all. Combining hydration with other healthy habits is the best approach to prevent and recover from hangovers.
JD Solomon resides in the Carolinas, where he fishes, sails, and hangs out on beaches.
