Introduction
There are few things worse than a hangover: the pounding headache, the queasiness, the fatigue. If you’ve ever experienced a hangover, you know the drill. And while there’s no sure-fire cure for a hangover, certain foods can help ease the symptoms. Here are a few of our favourites:
Coconut water
What does coconut water do for you?
First, coconut water is a natural sports drink filled with electrolytes such as calcium, potassium, and magnesium lost when you sweat. When you drink coconut water, you re-hydrate your body and replenish the electrolytes you need to feel better. What’s more, the natural sugar in coconut water is quickly absorbed, which can help get fuel into your body and muscles rapidly. That can help get you back on your feet faster.
Further reading: 6 Body Cooling Foods to Beat the Heat This Summer
Oatmeal
What does oatmeal do for you?
Stave off hunger with a serving of oatmeal – it’s a whole grain packed with protein and fibre. Protein helps rebuild muscle and gives you a boost of energy. In contrast, the fibre helps fill you up, stopping you from overeating later on and reversing any progress you make from working out. Oatmeal is the perfect food to eat after a workout, thanks to these benefits.
Further reading: ‘Works Like Magic’: 5 Things To Eat Daily To Manage & Lower Your Blood Sugar Levels
Pasta
What does pasta do for you?
Simple carbs found in pasta, rice and bread are quickly absorbed by the body, providing quick energy. While some people cut carbs after a workout, others need them for energy. Depending on the intensity of your workout, up to 60-65% of your calories should come from carbs. Dietary fibre is also healthy, but it’s more easily absorbed later in the day. Moreover, while healthy people often think they should cut down on pasta and bread, studies have shown that yellow and white grains provide energy to exercisers and help them keep going until dinner time.
Further reading: TOP 5 PASTA DISHES FOR A LOVELY SUNDAY BRUNCH!
Vegetables
What does eating vegetables do for you?
It is essential to eat healthy fruits and vegetables, especially after a workout. Veggies provide the nutrients needed for recovery, including vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. On the other hand, they also contain carbohydrates and protein that your body can use for energy and muscle repair. All vegetables are not created equal, though. Colourful vegetables like red peppers, yellow squash, and zucchini are packed with antioxidants and nutrients your body needs to repair muscle and recover.
Further reading:
Fish
What does fish do for you?
Lean fish like cod, tuna, halibut, salmon and shrimp provide healthy fats and selenium, niacin, vitamin B6, zinc, and chromium. The healthy fats in fish can help replenish glycogen stores; glycogen is used for fuel during workouts. Glycogen is stored in the liver and muscles and can be replenished by eating fish that is not baked or grilled. Fish is also a great source of protein, which can help rebuild strength during hangovers.
Further reading: Top 5 Indian Fish recipes- only to leave you lip smacking for more!
Winding-Up
In conclusion, while there is no magic cure for a hangover, there are certain foods and drinks that can help ease the symptoms. First, drinking lots of fluids, especially water, is crucial to preventing dehydration. Eating small meals or snacks every few hours will help settle your stomach and give you some much-needed energy. And finally, greasy or fatty foods can help line your stomach and absorb some of the alcohol. So next time you’re feeling rough after a night out, reach for some of these hangover-busting foods and drinks.
