Nobody wants a hangover, but sometimes we get stupid when we're getting stupid. Here's how to be smarter about all this.

Of course, the best way to avoid a hangover is to not drink. That's isn't advice, though, is it? Not drinking is the sure fire way to avoid the effects of alcohol, and is certainly a very wise and virtuous choice, but you wouldn't be reading this if that was your plan. Assuming the decision to throw a few back has been made, here is some advice on avoiding the dreaded next-day hangover.

1) Drink Water

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You've likely heard about always having a water between drinks. This is sound, if not always realistic, advice. In the very least, be sure there is a water on the table at all times and be sure to sip from it. It may assist you in having that "one too many" regret. Better still, load up on water both before and after your night out. Alcohol has a dehydrating effect (your body is less able to retain fluids, hence why you pee so much). Be fully hydrated at the outset because overcoming the dehydration a night of drinking brings on is no easy task. Drink immediately after because if you wait until morning, you'll be in a world of hurt.

 

2) For Goodness Sake, Eat Something

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A common sentiment among those who have overindulged and exceeded what they typically think is their limit is "I drank on an empty stomach." If this means ordering a plate of nachos before closing time, do it. Speaking of which, there is some science that suggests consuming the carbons in burnt toast before having alcohol may help your body process some of the toxins. Sounds dubious, but it can't hurt right? A grilled bacon and egg sandwich before heading out may be better for your cause than on the way home!

 

3) Know Your Limit

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You're an adult, succumbing to peer pressure just isn't an excuse anymore. Someone ordered a round of shots and you're just not feeling it? Don't drink it. Trust me, after that initial razzing someone will be more than happy to take that drink off your hands. I'd say you know your limits better than anyone, but that is only sometimes true. A friend is suggesting you've had enough? Chances are you've had enough-- drink some water, enjoy some nachos and have fun while taking a break.

 

4) Sleep

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Easier said than done what with St. Patrick's falling on a weekday. Still, when the option is available this is the best bet; sleep as much as you can in order to allow your body to recuperate. Some people are of the notion of getting up early and working out, and while sometimes this seems to help, it likely has much more to do with the endorphins a good run releases than with recovery. The danger here, if you're paying attention, is that you are likely dehydrated and a workout may do more harm than good. Sometimes calling out sick is just what the doctor ordered after you've ordered too many.

 

5) Coffee and an Aspirin

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credit Warren Goldswain / ThinkStock
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Studies have found that the caffeine in coffee and the anti-inflammatory agents in aspirin can block the effects of acetate that alcohol has. You'll want to be careful not overdue either, as coffee won't help you hydrate as well as you should and too much aspirin could be rough on an overtaxed liver and an upset stomach.

 

6)  Call The Hangover Club

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Can you believe this is a thing? A company that sends out a nurse with an IV drip to load you up with water, vitamins and medicine. Mind you, there have been occasions where had this service been available I would have been tempted. At $175-249, and paired with the previous night's bar tab in the same range, no way I would ever have able to make it happen-- but, oh, the temptation...

There you go, I hope these tips help save you from a little bit of suffering. Have fun and be safe!

 

 

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