Seven Steps to Getting Over the New Year Hangover

The above headline may say New Year hangover but these tips can apply to any hangover at any stage. We encourage drinking responsibly, but the festive season is traditionally a time for indulgence and sometimes we have the one that’s one too many. If you were out last night, here's a few tips that might help you through today's fear. Substitute a drink with water Okay, so this part is before the hangover begins but it’s advisable to have a glass of water in between drinks so that you stay hydrated and avoid that horrible fuzzy feeling the next morning. It’s a tried and tested method which really does work. Fresh air It’s probably the last thing you feel like doing but a brisk walk is about the only thing that will banish that throbbing pain between your temples. Bundle up and head out, the crisp winter air will clear your head and your mind in no time. Sleep If you can at all, take advantage of the fact you’re on Christmas holidays to get some extra zzz’s. By the time you wake up, science says that the worst of your hangover will have passed. Alcohol is metabolized at the rate of .015 of blood alcohol concentration, or roughly one drink per hour, so this gives you the perfect opportunity for a cat nap while your body is metabolising the effects of last night.   Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate Hydration the morning after a night before is essential. While it might be tempting to grab a coffee to keep your eyes open, it’s likely to make you feel worse in the long run. So fill up that water bottle and aim to drink at least eight glasses. Manage this and we promise you’ll start to feel better. Stock up on the Lucozade While water keeps you hydrated, sports drinks containing electrolytes (sodium potassium and chloride) will restore your energy levels. The sugar in these drinks will also give you a much needed energy boost. While we wouldn’t recommend drinking them all of the time, they’re definitely a useful way to ensure you refuel quickly. AVOID the hair of the dog It’s Christmas and some people manage to keep going for a few nights in a row. While it might be tempting to get up and opt for a Bloody Mary (or something similar), it’s not advisable. By drinking more, the body is delaying absorbing toxins which basically means you’ll end up with a worse hangover and nobody wants that. Duvet day Sometimes a lazy day is just what the doctor ordered, and if you’re feeling a little under the weather there’s nothing quite like a duvet day. Curl up on the couch with Christmas movie classics like Miracle on 34^th Street, Home Alone and Mrs Doubtfire. You’ll be laughing so hard, that hangover will be forgotten before long. We can hope anyway!