7 superfoods to ease a hangover

7 superfoods to ease a hangover

Prep for the silly season with these 7 superfoods to ease a hangover.

If you were out late last night and have a pounding headache to show for it, you’re probably wishing you said no to those last two (or four) gin and tonics. Hangovers are utter hell, but if you go all out, you’ll pay the price as your body is simply not designed to binge on alcohol. The good news is there are some secret superfoods that could alleviate your hangover the morning after the night before. So make sure to stock up.

Water

Yes, it’s obvious, and we know it’s not strictly speaking a food. But if ever there was one-fix-all solution to a hangover, water is it. Make friends with H2O and your body will thank you for it. Alcohol dehydrates your body so make sure you sip water before, during and post-party to replace lost fluids.

Banana

Part of the fluid loss that occurs when a hangover sets in is a loss of electrolytes. Alcohol causes more urine production, which depletes levels of electrolyte minerals, such as potassium. This brings on headaches and nausea. If you can’t stomach a full breakfast in the morning, munch on a banana or blend it into a smoothie. The fruit’s natural high-potassium content could help to minimise hangover symptoms.

Egg

If, on the other hand, you are in the mood for a big breakfast, make sure eggs are on the menu. They’re rich in cysteine, an amino acid that protects the body from toxins caused by alcohol. Fry eggs in a spoonful of coconut oil or eat them scrambled with a piece of wholegrain toast to line your stomach.

Ginger

Ginger has been used as a nausea remedy for centuries. Not only is ginger anti-inflammatory but it also helps to neutralise stomach acid, squashing nausea symptoms. Make a hot drink with grated ginger, lemon (another digestive aid) and a teaspoon of honey if you’re craving something sweet to kick a hangover to the curb.

 Nuts 

Just as potassium levels are lost through alcohol, so too is magnesium. This important mineral helps with with muscle function, and when levels are low symptoms such as muscle spasms are common. Nuts such as Brazil nuts and almonds are a good source of magnesium so snack on a handful when a hangover strikes.

Tomatoes

There’s a good reason a Bloody Mary is known as a hangover cure, and the secret lies in tomato juice.  Tomatoes also help to ward off hangover symptoms thanks to their vitamin-C content along with a substance called glutathione, which the body produces to help rid toxins caused by hangovers.

Kale

Your liver takes a knocking after a big night out, so make sure your fridge is stocked with green leafy veggies such as kale, which helps to protect your liver from harmful chemicals that could compromise its efficiency.

You might also like our ultimate guide to nutrition or our article on why you should be embracing carbs.