Hangovers are a common occurrence for many people, yet there is a lot of misinformation surrounding them. In this article, we will debunk eight of the most common myths about hangovers.

Myth #1: Drinking water before bed will prevent a hangover

While drinking water before bed can help hydrate your body and reduce some symptoms of a hangover, it won’t prevent it altogether. Alcohol dehydrates the body, and it takes time for the body to rehydrate properly.

So, while drinking water can help, it won’t completely prevent a hangover.

Myth #2: Darker alcohols cause worse hangovers than clear alcohols

There is no scientific evidence to support the claim that darker alcohols, such as whiskey or tequila, cause worse hangovers than clear alcohols, such as vodka or gin.

The severity of a hangover can depend on several factors, including the amount of alcohol consumed, how quickly it was consumed, and the individual’s tolerance to alcohol.

Myth #3: Taking painkillers before bed will prevent a hangover

While taking painkillers such as aspirin before bed may ease some hangover symptoms, it will not prevent a hangover. Painkillers can also be harmful when mixed with alcohol, as they can damage the liver.

It is better to avoid taking painkillers altogether, and instead focus on preventative measures such as drinking water and eating a meal before drinking.

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Myth #4: Hangovers are only caused by heavy drinking

While heavy drinking can certainly cause a severe hangover, even moderate drinking can result in a hangover for some people. The severity of a hangover varies from person to person, and can depend on several factors such as age, weight, and gender.

Myth #5: Eating greasy food will cure a hangover

While eating greasy food may help absorb some of the alcohol in your stomach, it will not cure a hangover. The best way to reduce the severity of a hangover is to stay hydrated and eat a nutritious meal before and after drinking.

Myth #6: Coffee will cure a hangover

Coffee may help you feel more alert, but it will not cure a hangover. The caffeine in coffee can dehydrate the body further, and may worsen some hangover symptoms. Stick to drinking water and other hydrating fluids, and avoid coffee if possible.

Myth #7: Hangover cures such as “hair of the dog” or raw eggs are effective

There is no scientific evidence to support the claim that hangover cures such as drinking more alcohol (“hair of the dog”) or consuming raw eggs are effective. In fact, drinking more alcohol will only prolong and worsen a hangover.

Stick to proven remedies such as staying hydrated and getting plenty of rest.

Myth #8: There is a cure for hangovers

Unfortunately, no cure for hangovers exists. The best way to avoid a hangover is to drink in moderation, eat a nutritious meal before and after drinking, stay hydrated, and get plenty of rest.

If you do experience a hangover, the symptoms can be managed with over-the-counter painkillers and hydrating fluids, but time is the only true cure.