Why do you get hangover after drinking alcohol and can you prevent it?
Produced by: Tarun Mishra Designed by: Manoj Kumar
Alcohol Metabolism Process
Alcohol is metabolized in the liver by the enzyme alcohol dehydrogenase, forming acetaldehyde, a toxic chemical that the body must clear before it starts causing internal damage.
Peak Hangover Symptoms
Studies show that hangover symptoms peak when all alcohol is converted to acetaldehyde. Besides alcohol, compounds like congeners and sulfites in drinks, especially in darker ones like red wines and whiskeys, contribute to hangovers.
Dehydration and Headaches
Alcohol's diuretic effect and suppression of vasopressin lead to dehydration, causing headaches due to minor brain shrinkage and vasodilation triggering migraines.
Nausea and Stomach Upset
Alcohol irritates the stomach lining and increases stomach acid release, resulting in nausea and stomach upset.
Fatigue and Disrupted Sleep
Alcohol consumption, combined with disrupted sleep, causes fatigue. General inflammation, induced by alcohol, contributes to the overall malaise during a hangover.
Genetic Variations
Hangover sensitivity due to genetic variances is common, particularly in people of Asian descent. Some individuals, 10-20%, report not experiencing hangovers even after significant alcohol consumption.
Lack of Scientifically Proven Cures
Despite various folk remedies like raw eggs, coffee, or isotonic mixtures, there are no definitive cures for hangovers. These remedies mainly replenish lost nutrients, fluids, and endorphins.
Effective Hangover Alleviation
A study suggests that having a bowel movement speeds up recovery by evacuating ethanol in the intestines, reducing the risk of liver damage. However, the best prevention is a healthy lifestyle, an early night, and moderation in alcohol consumption.