Hangovers have been a part of the human experience for thousands of years. From ancient Mesopotamia to modern-day partying, people have always sought ways to cope with the effects of alcohol.

Despite this, there are still many myths surrounding hangovers that persist to this day. In this article, we will debunk some common myths and provide you with facts about hangovers.

Myth 1: Drinking water before bed prevents a hangover

Many people believe that drinking water before bed after a night of drinking can help prevent a hangover. While it is true that staying hydrated can lower the severity of a hangover, it won’t prevent it altogether.

Alcohol dehydrates the body, and it takes more than just a glass of water to reverse its effects.

Myth 2: The darker the drink, the worse the hangover

There is a common belief that the darker the drink, the worse the hangover. However, this is not entirely true.

Darker drinks such as red wine and whiskey may contain more congeners – substances that are produced during the fermentation and distillation process – which can exacerbate hangover symptoms. But the amount of congeners in a drink is not the only factor. The amount of alcohol consumed and individual differences in metabolism can also play a role in the severity of a hangover.

Myth 3: Hangovers only happen when you drink too much

While consuming excessive amounts of alcohol can certainly lead to a hangover, even moderate drinking can cause one.

The severity of a hangover depends on several factors, including the amount of alcohol consumed, the duration of the drinking session, and individual differences in metabolism and sensitivity to alcohol.

Myth 4: Eating a big meal before drinking prevents a hangover

Having a big meal before drinking may slow down the absorption of alcohol in the bloodstream, which can delay the onset of intoxication. However, it won’t necessarily prevent a hangover.

The body still has to process the alcohol, and the presence of food in the stomach may not have a significant impact on this process.

Myth 5: Mixing alcohol types causes worse hangovers

Many people believe that mixing different types of alcohol can make a hangover worse. However, this is not entirely true. The amount of alcohol consumed is the most significant factor contributing to hangovers, not the types of drinks consumed.

Myth 6: You can “sweat out” a hangover

Some people believe that exercising or sweating can help eliminate toxins from the body and reduce hangover symptoms. While sweating can help release some of the toxins, it won’t eliminate them entirely.

It’s also important to note that excessive sweating can lead to further dehydration, which can worsen hangover symptoms.

Myth 7: Hangovers only affect heavy drinkers

Hangovers can affect anyone who consumes alcohol, regardless of how much or how often they drink. Even occasional or social drinkers can experience hangover symptoms.

Myth 8: Taking painkillers before bed can prevent a hangover

While taking painkillers such as aspirin or ibuprofen before bed after a night of drinking may help alleviate headache and body aches, it won’t prevent a hangover. These drugs can irritate the stomach lining and worsen digestive symptoms.

It’s also important to note that combining alcohol and painkillers can be dangerous and increase the risk of liver damage.

Myth 9: Hangovers only last a few hours

The duration and severity of a hangover can vary greatly depending on the individual and the amount of alcohol consumed.

Hangovers may last several hours to several days and can include symptoms such as headache, nausea, fatigue, sensitivity to light and sound, and dehydration.

Myth 10: There’s no cure for a hangover

While there is no one-size-fits-all cure for a hangover, there are several ways to alleviate symptoms and speed up recovery.

Staying hydrated, getting plenty of rest, and eating a nutritious meal can all help the body recover from alcohol’s effects. Over-the-counter remedies such as pain relievers, anti-nausea medication, and rehydration salts can also provide some relief.