Hangover severity is not simply a matter of how much alcohol is consumed. New research shows that even with the same amount of alcohol, the choice of drink can significantly affect the intensity of next-day headaches, nausea and fatigue. The study also found that a severe hangover does not necessarily lead to reduced drinking afterward.
Head, Chest, Abdomen Hurt… Legs and Hands "Feel Weak"
Researchers at UCLouvain in Belgium published their analysis of post-drinking physical responses in 34 adults aged 18 to 35 who frequently experience hangovers, in the latest issue of the international journal Drug and Alcohol Dependence on Tuesday (local time).
Participants were asked to record their hangover intensity and sleep quality the day after drinking over several weekends. At the same time, using a smartphone-based tool, they marked on a body diagram the areas with strong sensations such as pain and palpitations, and areas with weak sensations such as lethargy and numbness.
The analysis showed that hangovers formed a "body map" concentrated in specific areas. Strong discomfort such as headaches, heart palpitations and thirst appeared in the head, chest and abdomen.
In contrast, the legs, hands and lower body commonly showed dulled sensation and loss of strength. The researchers explained that nausea and lethargy were also linked to patterns of lower-body inactivation.
Notably, a more severe hangover did not lead to reduced drinking afterward. "This contradicts the conventional view that hangovers naturally suppress drinking," the researchers said, adding that "differences in alcohol metabolism and recovery speed may play a role."
"Hangovers Differ by Type of Alcohol"… Why?
Hangovers vary not only by the amount consumed but also by the type of alcohol.
Dark-colored distilled spirits are considered the worst offenders. Whiskey, brandy, dark rum and red wine contain high levels of "congeners" produced during fermentation. These substances are known to worsen headaches, muscle pain and nausea.
Red wine is especially prone to triggering headaches. Tyramine and histamine in red wine affect blood vessels. Some people can quickly feel a headache or nausea after just one glass.
Mulled wine, a popular winter drink, can also cause surprisingly severe hangovers. Its high sugar and fruit sugar content can cause sharp blood sugar swings, leading to next-day dizziness and fatigue.
On the other hand, some analyses suggest that pure tequila made from 100 percent agave causes relatively milder hangovers, thanks to its low sugar and congener content. Still, experts stress that "no matter what alcohol you drink, excessive consumption makes it meaningless."
To Reduce Hangovers… "Hydration and Protein Matter More Than Hangover Soup"
Experts cite preventing dehydration as the most important factor in hangover recovery.
Alcohol suppresses the antidiuretic hormone vasopressin, causing the body to rapidly expel water. This leads to headaches, thirst, fatigue and electrolyte imbalance.
To ease hangovers, water-rich foods such as soups and fruits can help. Consuming protein and vegetables together is also said to aid recovery.
Fermented foods such as kimchi, doenjang and miso soup can help restore gut health. Conversely, greasy or excessively sweet foods can worsen blood sugar fluctuations and dehydration, potentially making hangovers worse.
The researchers added that "visualizing bodily sensations could be used in the future to identify groups at risk of alcohol use problems."
