The room feels like it’s spinning, and your head? Well, it’s pounding like a drum. Your mouth is dry, your stomach is doing somersaults, and somehow, you’re starving, yet the thought of food is almost as unbearable as your hangover itself. Ah, the aftermath of a night well spent (or maybe not so well). If you’re blaming that last margarita or that extra shot of tequila, it’s time to cut yourself some slack. You’re here now, and how you handle the rest of the day, what you eat specifically, will determine how soon you can feel human again. According to experts like registered dietitian Dana Angelo White, the right hangover foods are key to getting your life back on track. So, let’s talk about what you should be eating to rescue your body from this all too familiar misery.
Hangover Snack List: What To Eat During A Hangover
The key to recovery lies in the foods that can help detoxify your liver, replenish lost nutrients, and restore hydration. According to nutrition experts, these are the best hangover foods to help you feel like yourself again.
1. Bone Broth
One of the best things to eat during a hangover is bone broth. Rich in minerals like potassium, magnesium, and calcium, it helps rehydrate your body and replenish lost electrolytes. The protein content provides a steady source of energy, while the gelatin and collagen work to soothe your stomach lining. Try Kettle & Fire Lemongrass Ginger Bone Broth, which also contains ginger, known for its nausea-relieving properties.
2. Chicken Noodle Soup
Chicken noodle soup isn’t just for colds, it can work wonders for a hangover too. This classic comfort food rehydrates and replenishes electrolytes thanks to its water and salt content. It also stabilizes blood sugar levels, which can fluctuate after a night of drinking. Plus, the warmth of the soup can help calm nausea.
3. Eggs
Eggs are a fantastic source of protein, and protein is essential for processing the alcohol still in your system. Keep it simple with scrambled eggs or an omelet to avoid the greasy additions like bacon and sausage that can make things worse. Eggs also contain amino acids that help detoxify your liver and aid in recovery.
4. Leafy Greens
Spinach and kale aren’t just healthy, they can help detoxify your body after drinking. The chlorophyll in these leafy greens helps neutralize toxins, making them an ideal hangover food. Toss some spinach into a smoothie or sauté kale with garlic for an easy and effective remedy.
5. Bananas
When you’re hungover, your body craves potassium, and bananas are one of the best sources. They’re easy on the stomach, making them an ideal snack for when you’re feeling queasy. Bananas also help restore electrolyte balance, so grab one and enjoy.
6. Peanut Butter & Whole Grain Crackers
If you’re feeling nauseous but still need something to eat, peanut butter and crackers are a great option. The carbs in the crackers can stabilize your blood sugar, while the protein and fat in the peanut butter provide long-lasting energy. It’s a balanced snack that can help you power through the day.
7. Carbs
Carb-heavy foods like toast, bagels, and pasta are usually easy to digest and can help replenish your energy. While you may be tempted to indulge in greasy pizza or burgers, these foods won’t “soak up” alcohol as you may have heard. Instead, stick to simple carbs that are gentle on your stomach and help rehydrate your body.
8. Smoothies
Smoothies are a fantastic way to hydrate while also getting a nutritious boost. You can pack a smoothie with hangover-friendly ingredients like berries, bananas, spinach, and chia seeds. The antioxidants from the berries and the electrolytes from the other ingredients will help rehydrate your body and give you some much-needed energy.
9. Maple Water
Instead of reaching for sugary drinks or sports drinks, try maple water. This natural sap from maple trees is packed with electrolytes and has been shown to be more hydrating than water. If you’re looking to hydrate fast, this is a great choice. For an added benefit, drinking maple water before consuming alcohol can help the body metabolize alcohol faster.
10. Coconut Water
Coconut water is another excellent option for replenishing electrolytes. It’s a natural source of potassium and can help with hydration. Drink it on its own or add it to your smoothie for an extra boost.
11. Salmon
Salmon is high in Omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, both of which help reduce inflammation. If you’re feeling puffy or dehydrated after drinking, salmon can be a good choice. Plus, it’s easy to digest and provides long-lasting energy.
12. Watermelon
One of the reasons you’re so thirsty after a night of drinking is dehydration. Watermelon, with its high-water content, can help restore hydration. It also contains amino acids, which support liver function—perfect for helping your liver recover after processing all that alcohol.
13. Celery
Celery is high in potassium and sodium, both of which are important electrolytes that you lose during drinking. Snack on celery sticks with peanut butter or toss them into a smoothie for an added hydration boost.
14. Broccoli
Another vegetable that can help you recover is broccoli. It’s rich in potassium, calcium, and magnesium, making it a great addition to any hangover recovery meal.
Conclusion
When you’re hungover, your body is asking for a little TLC. The right foods can help replenish electrolytes, soothe your stomach, and support liver detoxification. By reaching for nourishing snacks like bone broth, chicken soup, and bananas, you can speed up your recovery and feel back to normal in no time. So next time you’re battling a hangover, don’t turn to greasy comfort foods. Choose nourishing options that help your body heal and recover.
Reference: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/16627-hangover