Hangover-proof!
We’re three times more likely to say yes to an extra drink (or two!) during holiday gatherings than at any other time of year—and that can leave us feeling weary, achy and blah the next day. The great news: These simple strategies can hangover-proof your parties, so you can enjoy all the merriment without suffering fun-sapping symptoms
Pre- hydrate
Alcohol is a diuretic, encouraging your kidneys to flush fluids. And the resulting dehydration triggers morning-after symptoms, says internal medicine specialist Oliver James, M.D. A clever trick: Down 16 oz. of a rehydrating solution such as Cheers Hydrate or Hydralyte before your first cocktail. These mineral-rich sips are popular for next-day recovery, but four studies suggest having them before prevents fluid losses, so you wake up 50% more energized.
Snack on cheese
Your stomach lining produces an enzyme (alcohol dehydrogenase) that breaks down alcohol. No wonder Canadian researchers say keeping alcohol in your tummy a little longer cuts your risk of morning-after ughs by 65%. To do: Pair each drink with 1 cup of digestion-slowing food, such as cheese and crackers or crudités and dip.
Try this root
You could cut your risk of waking up sluggish by as much as 51% by taking 200 to 500 mg. of Panax ginseng before bed, suggests research in Food & Function. Explains study coauthor Min Lee, PH.D., this medicinal root energizes your liver, speeding its breakdown of alcohol. Note: Check with your doctor before supplementing.
Breakfast on eggs
Alcohol boosts a relaxing hormone (GABA), but as your alcohol level drops overnight, so does your GABA release. To feel 55% more upbeat the next day, order up eggs. UCLA researchers say eggs brim with building blocks needed to restore GABA production. — Brenda Kearns
When heartburn flares, down a glass of ice water. Tufts University School of Medicine researchers say it can tame heartburn in as little as one minute. Ice water flushes acids back down and dilutes stomach acid, preventing irritation if more reflux occurs.