Hangovers: the best foods for recovery
Did you get a little carried away last night? This morning, your alarm clock is stinging, your mouth is pasty, your heart's a little upside down and your brain's in absorbent cotton mode... In short, you're hungover. But don't panic! Your plate can be your best ally in helping you get back on your feet smoothly. Here's what you need to eat (and drink) to get your color back without upsetting your stomach.
Banana: the ultimate comfort fruit
Rich in potassium, bananas help compensate for dehydration caused by alcohol. Easy to digest, it also calms nausea and gives a little boost thanks to its natural carbohydrates. It's perfect as soon as you wake up, even if you have trouble swallowing anything solid.
Wholemeal bread, rice, oats: gentle on your blood sugar levels
After a night of partying, your blood sugar often plummets. The result? Fatigue, irritability, palpitations. Complex carbohydrates such as those found in wholemeal bread, rice or porridge will help you stabilize all this, without assaulting your digestive system.
Eggs: protein + detox
Eggs contain cysteine, an amino acid that helps break down acetaldehyde, a toxic molecule produced by the liver when it eliminates alcohol. Plus, it's satiating, comforting, and perfect with a slice of toast or a bowl of warm rice.
Broth and miso soup: your anti-dehydration weapon
The combo of salt + water + minerals in broth works wonders against dehydration. If you're in "zero energy" mode, a clear, hot, salty soup soothes, rehydrates and gets your body back on track.
Watermelon, cucumber, orange: natural hydration
Alcohol = water loss = headaches, fatigue and dry mouth. Opt for water-rich foods such as watermelon, melon, cucumber and citrus fruits to recharge your batteries slowly but surely.
Coffee or no coffee?
Yes, for the stimulating effect (and the feeling of "coming back to life"). But beware: coffee is a diuretic and can increase dehydration. Drink it in moderation, always accompanied by a large glass of water. Alternatively, try green tea, rich in antioxidants, or a ginger-lemon infusion.
Absolutely avoid
- Fatty or fried foods: no, a dripping burger won't make the hangover go away, it'll just upset your stomach even more.
- Refined sugar: it causes blood sugar spikes that can aggravate headaches.
- Alcohol (even the little Bloody Mary-type "horse remedy"): bad idea. You're just putting off the symptoms.
To remember
- Stay hydrated, go easy on the fat, fill up on potassium and soft proteins.
- A slice of toast, an egg, a banana and a large cup of tea: that's the ideal breakfast for the day after a party.
And above all, rest, be indulgent with yourself... and maybe think about a little glass of water between two shots next time ;)
Adèle Peyches