Scientists Identify the Most Effective Way to Alleviate Hangover Symptoms

Here's a scientist-approved way to ease a hangover.

Scientists have discovered a surprisingly effective way to alleviate hangover symptoms, and it doesn't involve drinking water or taking pills. For many people, hangovers are just part of a night out, bringing headaches, nausea, and fatigue that can ruin the next day. However, a new study suggests that exercise could be the key to feeling better after drinking.

The research published in the journal Addictive Behaviours included 1,676 college students who had experienced at least one hangover in the past three months. All the participants reported exercising regularly—at least half an hour a week—and filled out questionnaires about their physical activity, alcohol consumption, and how severe their hangover symptoms were. The findings revealed that engaging in more intense forms of exercise, like running, can significantly reduce both the frequency and severity of hangovers, even for those who drank heavily.

There are several reasons why exercise might help. First, when you work out, your body releases endorphins, which are natural pain relievers. These endorphins can help ease the discomfort that often comes with a hangover. Additionally, regular physical activity tends to improve sleep quality, allowing your body to recover more effectively after a night of drinking. Exercise also boosts metabolism, helping your body process alcohol and its byproducts—like acetaldehyde, which contributes to many hangover symptoms—more efficiently.

However, the study didn't determine the best timing for exercise relative to drinking to gain these benefits. It's also uncertain if these findings apply to older adults, since the study focused on college students whose habits may differ significantly from those of a more mature audience.

In the end, while exercise can offer some relief from hangover symptoms, it should not be seen as a cure-all. It's important to remember that prevention is always better than a cure. Staying mindful of alcohol consumption, drinking water and making healthier choices can help avoid the discomfort of a hangover altogether.