If you’re worried about experiencing a festive hangover, listen up.
Dr Neena Chandrasekaran, 33, has shared advice for anyone who is planning to enjoy a mulled wine or two. Apparently, eating a certain food before you go boozing can make all the difference.
The Florida-based medic, who specialises in Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, urged her 125,000 TikTok followers to consider eating cheese before they party the night away this Christmas.
Dr Neena said: “If you are going for a night out on the town and you are going to drink alcohol, eating cheese before drinking alcohol can decrease your risk of having a hangover.”
Why, you may wonder? The health expert added: “This is because cheese has a lot of protein, fat and complex carbs that can coat the stomach, which decreases the absorption of alcohol.
“Cheese can help the body metabolise alcohol better and prevent liver damage. Cheese also replenishes nutrients because it is full of B vitamin and calcium – these specific nutrients are depleted from the body when drinking alcohol.
“Calcium, which can be depleted through alcohol specifically helps to improve nerve and muscle function, and B vitamins are needed for energy and metabolism.”
It goes without saying that a cheeseboard can’t counteract the impacts of binge drinking, but it could make you feel a bit less delicate by the time the morning arrives.
Dr Neena added: “Just remember, no alcohol is better than any alcohol. However, if you are going to drink, try to remember to try some cheese before alcohol.”
More ways to prevent a hangover
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water before you start consuming alcohol. Continue to drink water throughout the event to stay hydrated.
- Eat before drinking: Have a nutritious meal before you drink. Foods high in protein and healthy fats can slow the absorption of alcohol.
- Choose drinks wisely: Choose lighter-coloured drinks like vodka or gin over darker ones like whiskey or red wine, as congeners in darker drinks can contribute to hangovers.
- Pace yourself: Drink slowly to give your body time to metabolise the alcohol. Sipping a drink over an extended period is better than consuming large amounts quickly.
- Get plenty of sleep: Ensure you get adequate rest before and after drinking, as sleep can help your body recover.
- Consider trying supplements: Some people find that taking certain vitamins or supplements, such as B vitamins and magnesium, helps prevent hangovers. However, consult with a healthcare provider before taking supplements.