It’s almost inevitable for many Brits that they will be waking up today with some level of a hangover. Despite our best efforts to not drink too much, New Year’s Eve is typically one of the heaviest nights of the year.
While the only real cure for a hangover is going back in time to stop yourself from drinking, there are ways you can help minimise its effects.
According to one expert certain foods could do just this. Speaking with Express.co.uk, Kyle Crowley, nutrition expert for Protein Works, shared six foods that can tackle a hangover.
If possible it is best to consume these before drinking, however, eating them when you get home or the next day can still have its benefits.
These foods are bananas, sweet potatoes, eggs, salmon, oats and protein shakes.
Bananas
When we drink we need to use the bathroom more frequently.
Kyle explained: “However, once the seal is broken, we risk ridding ourselves of important sodium and potassium electrolytes which help keep our body hydrated.
“By eating a banana, you’re helping to increase your potassium store and hydration throughout the night, which should leave you feeling a little better in the morning.”
Sweet potato
This vegetable could help slow digestion.
“Sweet potatoes are not only another great source of potassium, which will help keep your body more hydrated throughout the night, but are also high in complex carbohydrates,” he said.
“This will help slow digestion and reduce the effects of alcohol on the body.”
Eggs
According to Kyle, eggs are one of the best foods to consume before a night out drinking.
He said: “They are full of vitamin B, which is valuable in protecting your liver, as well as the amino acid cysteine helping to rid your body of toxins.
“They’re also packed full of protein, so are a fantastic food to help keep the munchies at bay and avoid waking up next to a greasy half-eaten kebab.”
Salmon
Salmon’s high-protein and healthy fats make for a great pre-drinking food, Kyle said.
He added: “In particular, the fat helps slow the rate at which food leaves your stomach, which slows the rate of alcohol absorption into your blood. Meaning you won’t feel like death in the morning.”
Oats
Oats are a great source of fibre and protein. This will help make you feel fuller for longer and line your stomach before drinking.
Kyle said: “Many studies have also shown that oats can help improve liver function and protect against alcohol-induced liver damage.”
Protein
Consuming a high-protein meal or even a protein shake before drinking can be beneficial in helping ensure you are well-nourished.
“Just like the effects of eggs and salmon, a meal rich in protein helps curb hunger and consequently slow down the absorption of alcohol in your bloodstream,” Kyle commented.
“This can help minimise the severity of a hangover the next day.”
