Understanding the Science Behind Hangovers
If you’re planning a boozy bank holiday, new research has revealed what your body might be going through the next day. Scientists have analyzed reports from young adults who experienced hangovers to create detailed maps of how their bodies felt after a night of drinking. These maps show a consistent pattern of discomfort in certain areas of the body.
The study found that people tend to feel more pain and discomfort in their head, chest, and stomach following a heavy night of drinking. Meanwhile, their legs, lower body, and hands often feel weaker and less energetic. The researchers also discovered that heavier drinkers tend to experience hangovers more intensely, yet this doesn’t stop them from continuing to drink.
Within the group of participants aged 18 to 35, older individuals reported feeling the effects of drinking more keenly than younger ones. According to the researchers, topographical maps showed activation in the head, chest, and abdomen, while the lower limbs showed deactivation. This finding challenges the common belief that hangovers serve as a natural deterrent to further alcohol consumption.
How the Study Was Conducted
For their study, researchers from UCLouvain in France asked 34 young adults who were regular heavy drinkers to complete questionnaires about their drinking habits and frequency of hangovers. Over several weekends, after a night of drinking, they were asked to rate their level of drunkenness, the severity of their hangover, and the quality of their sleep.
They also used a smartphone tool to color in a body outline, indicating areas where they felt more sensations such as pain or numbness. Pressing harder on certain areas indicated stronger sensations. From this data, the team created a map showing that hangovers have a clear ‘body pattern,’ with people tending to feel similar symptoms in the same areas.
Diagrams show the head, chest, and abdomen lit up in red and yellow, indicating high ‘activation’ scores for discomfort. Meanwhile, the lower body appears in cooler blue tones, showing reduced sensation the next day.
Hangover Recovery Tips
To help ease the effects of a hangover, consider the following tips:
- Start with hydrating foods like soups, broths, and fruits
- Combine lean protein with vegetables to support metabolic recovery
- Add fermented foods like kimchi or miso for gut health
- Pair indulgent items with nutrient-rich sides to improve overall balance
These strategies can help speed up recovery and reduce the severity of hangover symptoms.
The Impact of Age on Hangover Intensity
The study found that older participants, particularly those in their 30s, reported greater intensity of bodily sensations compared to their younger counterparts. This may be due to metabolic and physiological differences in how the body processes ethanol and recovers from alcohol consumption. These differences could contribute to longer recovery times among older individuals.
The researchers suggest that their body mapping tool could help identify individuals who may be more vulnerable to alcohol addiction. This could lead to better-targeted interventions and support for those struggling with alcohol-related issues.
Nutritional Insights on Hangover Foods
Last year, researchers identified the top hangover foods based on their nutritional quality. They found that meals rich in fluids, fermented foods, lean protein, and vegetables can aid in recovery after excessive drinking. On the other hand, heavy, greasy, and sugary dishes can worsen hydration and trigger energy crashes.
A health and nutrition app called Lifesum ranked 10 countries by the nutrients in their go-to hangover meals. Japan topped the list with its revitalizing miso soup, while the UK’s favorite Full English placed at the bottom.
What Drinks Cause What Hangovers?
Hangovers can vary depending on both the amount of alcohol consumed and the type of drink. For example, mulled wine, a popular festive choice, can cause fatigue and dizziness the next day due to fluctuating blood sugar levels. In contrast, tequila is said to cause no hangover if consumed in moderation.
Dark Spirits: Muscle Aches and Severe Nausea
Dr Zenon Andreou, a GP and online doctor for Asda Online Doctor by ZAVA, explained that lighter spirits like vodka, gin, and light beers contain fewer congeners. Congeners are by-products of the fermentation process that make darker drinks like dark rum, whiskey, red wine, and brandy more likely to cause severe hangovers. These substances can be toxic and interfere with the body’s ability to repair itself.
Red Wine: Headaches
Red wine headaches are specific to red wines and can cause nausea and migraines within minutes of consumption. Natural substances in red wine, such as tyramine and histamine, can constrict blood vessels, leading to morning headaches. Dr Andreou noted that these substances can be up to 200% higher in red wine than in white wine.
Mulled Wine: Dizziness, Shakiness, and Fatigue
Although mulled wine has a lower alcohol content, overconsumption can spike blood sugar levels due to its natural and added sugars. This can lead to headaches, dizziness, shaking, and fatigue the next day. Celebrity nutritionist Yalda Alaoui highlighted the importance of choosing dry wine or champagne to minimize disruptions in blood sugar levels.
Too Much of Any Alcohol: Dehydration
Dr Kathryn Basford, another doctor for Asda Online Doctor by Zava, explained that alcohol inhibits the production of vasopressin, a hormone that helps the body retain water. This leads to dehydration, which can cause headaches and nausea. The more you drink, the worse these effects can become.
Tequila: ‘No Hangover’ If You Don’t Go Overboard!
Tequila, when made from 100% agave, undergoes a different fermentation process that results in fewer sugars and congeners. Dr Andreou noted that consuming tequila in moderation and alongside water can help avoid a hangover.
