1. Hang
Cures
Hangovers are caused by several factors. First, the body has
to metabolize the active ingredient in alcoholic beverages: ethanol. This
process requires cellular energy, distracting the body from normal
activities like making glucose for the brain. Even after all the ethanol is
metabolized, the by-products of this process can cause additional
problems. Likewise, other substances in certain alcoholic beverages can
make a hangover worse. Lastly, ethanol is a diuretic and can lead to
dehydration.
2. Hangover Cures Around
Canada: Canada Dry Ginger Ale
Maybe it's national loyalty, but Canadians claim the fizzy stuff that was first formulated in
their country works wonders to settle an upset stomach. The drink's ingredient list,
however, lacks any mention of ginger itself, which would be the most likely source of
hangover help.
America: The Bloody Mary
Tomato juice has some of the highest concentration of lycopene as any food, and celery is
loaded with restorative vitamins that might help ease the pain. Remember, though, this
beloved hair-of-the-dog remedy is likely far more effective in its slightly-less-fun recipe: The
Virgin Mary.
Great Britain: Milk Thistle
Its effectiveness in scientific research to shield the liver from toxins has been backed up in
several studies. One flavonoid, silymarin, might be a key substance in its extract that helps
cure that hangover feeling. Some British tipplers swear that taking it both the night of and
morning after heavy drinking can all but erase any uncomfortable symptoms.
Poland: A glass of juice from either sour pickles or sauerkraut
Make sure the juice is loaded up with vinegar to help quell headaches and alleviate
discomfort, claim the Polish. Some even keep soured milk on hand (unpasteurized milk that
has been left at room temperature overnight for a day or two) to do the trick.