Hangovers

Hangovers are a group of unpleasant signs and symptoms caused by consumption of alcohol to the point of intoxication.

Typically, symptoms of hangovers begin a few hours after the cessation of drinking, around the time when the blood alcohol concentration is falling, and are felt for the next 24 hours.

Alcohol, a diuretic, blocks the secretion of vasopressin by the posterior pituitary gland. Without this hormone, the kidneys stop reabsorbing water and the excretion of urine increases.

Research reveals that 250 milliliters of consumed alcohol causes the body to excrete 800 to 1,000 milliliters of water, resulting in signs of dehydration like dry mouth, weakness, dizziness and headache.

Sodium and potassium are also lost with frequent urination causing fatigue, nausea and vomiting, weakness and muscle pain.

Alcohol inhibits glucose production and uses up glucose reserves in the liver with chronic intake. Decreased blood sugar levels results in symptoms of fatigue, weakness and mood disturbances.

Individuals with hangovers often demonstrate signs of sympathetic hyperactivity, which include tremors, increased sweating, rapid heartbeats and increased systolic blood pressure.

The symptoms may vary from one person to another with variable intensity.

Natural Cures for Hangovers:

Baking Soda:

To get rid of hangover symptoms, such as nausea, drink a glass of water mixed with a tablespoon of baking soda.

Increased urination caused by excessive consumption of alcohol results in bicarbonate loss. Baking soda is also known as sodium bicarbonate, making it a great natural cure for hangovers.

Alcohol increases the acidity of the stomach. Baking soda neutralizes the acid and reduces gastrointestinal symptoms of hangovers.

Lemon:

One of the fastest and best home remedies for hangovers is drinking a glass of cold, fresh lemon juice.

Lemons are high in Vitamin C, which helps in increasing the breakdown of alcohol within the body.

This drink also helps in regulating the blood sugar level.

Ginger:

Ginger is one of the most popular natural cures for nausea and vomiting and digestive distress caused by excessive intake of alcohol.

Ginger soothes the digestive tract and balances the gastric juices.

To relieve hangover symptoms, drink a cup of ginger ale or ginger tea.

To make a ginger tea, heat four cups of water to boiling, and add fresh slices of ginger root.

After five minutes, remove from heat, and strain the ginger out.

Add a splash of lemon juice and honey, if desired.

Energy Drinks or Sports Drinks:

Energy drinks are rich in glucose and electrolytes, which relieve symptoms associated to dehydration caused by alcohol intake.

Glucose provides energy and restores the blood sugar level in the body.