1. Prepare your body before the evening
Prevention starts well before the first glass of champagne. Follow these tips to limit the damage:
Hydrate throughout the day : Proper hydration prepares your body to better handle alcohol.
Eat a balanced meal before drinking : Foods high in fat (avocado, salmon, nuts) slow the absorption of alcohol. Add starchy foods for a solid base.
Take vitamins : Vitamin B and magnesium help your body metabolize alcohol. A banana or a food supplement may do the trick.
2. Adopt smart reflexes during the evening
To enjoy the party without suffering the consequences, here are some simple rules to follow:
Alternate alcohol and water : For every glass of alcohol, drink a glass of water. This limits dehydration, the main cause of hangovers.
Choose your drinks carefully : Dark alcohols (whiskey, rum, red wine) contain more congeners, substances that make hangovers worse. Prefer champagne, white wine or vodka.
Avoid mixing alcohols : Staying on one type of alcohol reduces the chance of a headache.
Measure your consumption : “Slow drinking” is your ally. Enjoy your drinks, but without rushing.
3. The key: end the evening well
Is your evening coming to an end? Don’t neglect these steps to limit the damage when you wake up:
Snack on something before sleeping : A small snack (bread, cheese, fruit) can help stabilize your blood sugar.
Drink a large glass of water : End the evening with good hydration.
Take a preventative painkiller (in moderation) : A paracetamol before sleeping can reduce pain the next day.
4. What if it’s too late? Solutions for the next day
If, despite your precautions, you wake up with a hangover, here’s how to overcome it:
Hydrate yourself intensely
Drink water, but also drinks rich in electrolytes (coconut water, isotonic drinks).
Ginger or mint tea can relieve nausea.
Eat light but nourishing
Choose foods that are easy to digest like bananas, toast or soup. Avoid fatty foods, which weigh down digestion.
Move slowly
A short walk in the fresh air can oxygenate your brain and ease headaches.
Take care of your liver
Consume foods that support the liver, such as black radish, artichoke or lemon. A detox infusion is also a good idea.
Relax
Rest and give your body time to recover. A nap or meditation can do wonders.
Mistakes to avoid
Excess coffee : Although it helps you wake up, it can accentuate dehydration.
“Drink again to heal” : Contrary to popular belief, this will only make the situation worse.
Ignoring the symptoms : A severe headache or persistent nausea may require medical advice.
In short: celebrate, but prepare!
With a little anticipation and moderation, you can fully enjoy your New Year’s Eve without suffering the next day. Hydration, appropriate nutrition and small smart gestures before, during and after the evening are the key to starting the year in style. So, champagne yes, but without the inconvenience of January 1st!
