How to Avoid That Brutal Hangover While You’re Out Partying
Alright Rocktstars, so you're gearing up for a fun night out, and the last thing you want is to wake up the next day feeling like you got hit by a BUS. Nobody likes a hangover, but with a few tips and tricks, you can dodge the worst of it (or at least make it a little less awful). Here’s what you can do to party smart and avoid that next-day headache.
---
1. **Get Your Food Game On**
You know what they say – never drink on an empty stomach! Grab a meal with some carbs, protein, and healthy fats before you start sipping. It’ll slow down how fast the alcohol hits your system and help keep your blood sugar from crashing later. And if you’re in it for the long haul, keep snacking throughout the night.
2. **Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate**
Seriously, water is your best friend here. Make it a habit to alternate every drink with a glass of water to stay hydrated and avoid that nasty dry mouth and pounding head the next day. If you’re feeling extra, throw in some electrolytes (gatorade or liquid IV?) before you hit the sack – they will give you a boost and keep dehydration in check.
3. **Keep it Slow and Steady**
You’re not in a race! Space out your drinks, sip slowly, and take breaks in between. When you pace yourself, your body gets a chance to keep up and break down the alcohol properly. Plus, you’ll have more time to actually enjoy the night.
4. **Stick to Clear Spirits**
Want to reduce your chances of a hangover? Go for clear spirits like vodka, gin, or silver tequila – they have fewer impurities (called congeners) than darker drinks like whiskey or rum. These are the culprits that make hangovers worse, so choosing low-congener drinks can make a difference.
5. **Ditch the Sugar**
It might be tempting to grab the sweetest drink at the bar, but sugary mixers are a recipe for a hangover disaster. All that sugar causes blood sugar spikes and crashes, making you feel rough the next day. Instead, try soda water, tonic, or fresh juice for a mixer. It’s cleaner and way better for keeping you balanced.
6. **Get Some Vitamin B and Zinc in You**
If you’re really looking to do some prep work, pop some Vitamin B and zinc before you head out. Studies say these two can help lessen hangover symptoms, so they’re worth considering if you want an extra layer of protection.
7. **Sleep Like It’s Your Job**
Alcohol messes with your sleep quality, which is why you still feel tired even after a full night out. Try to get a good night’s sleep, and if you can, sleep in the next morning. Rest is key to letting your body bounce back.
8. **Know Your Limits – and Stick to Them**
You know yourself best, so don’t get caught up in the hype. Setting a drink limit before the night starts will help keep you on track (and make it easier to ignore that one friend pushing shots on everyone).
The Morning After
If you do wake up with a hangover, don’t panic. Start hydrating, grab a hearty breakfast, and take it easy for a bit. Hangovers aren’t fun, but they don’t have to ruin your whole day.
So go ahead, enjoy your night out, and use these tips to stay one step ahead of that dreaded hangover. Cheers to partying smart!
The Better Bus Ride is all about getting out and having a great time with your friends. Just make sure you do it responsibly and safely! If you drink, DO NOT DRIVE, Ride the Bus instead!
