Hangover Cure
You know when you wake up with that telltale throbbing headache that you probably had way too much to drink the night before. All you want to do is snuggle back into the covers, sleep the pain away. But you've got big people things to do, and you're hungry. So, what can you eat? While no food can instantly heal a hangover, certain choices can definitely make a queasy stomach feel even worse. Before you reach for whatever your brain is craving, here's what not to—and what you should—reach for.
1. Extra-Spicy Buffalo Wings
Hot wings might sound like the exact thing you need after a long night, but fiery hot sauce is only going to make your sensitive stomach worse. Make those wings deep-fried, add some ranch to them, and you'll likely spend even more hours in the bathroom.
2. A Greasy Breakfast Burrito
What's worse than super spicy wings? A giant burrito stuffed with high-fat, high-calorie ingredients, like sausage, cheese, and fried potatoes. We know—you're probably drooling just thinking about it. But take our advice: eating that massive wrap will make you more nauseous than you already feel.
3. Chili Cheese Fries
If burritos are already axed from the table, you probably already know that fries, too, are a no-go. Even worse than regular fries are ones covered in chili and cheese. Spice and fatty foods, as we've said, can amplify that queasy feeling. You don't need to swear them off forever, of course, but munching on them the morning after probably isn't the best choice.
4. Super-Sugary Doughnuts
Another thing you should wait until your hangover fades to eat? Anything super sugary. That frosted doughnut might look mouth-watering and irresistible when you're tired and cranky and craving something sweet, but after the brief burst of energy it gives you, you'll crash and burn out again.
5. Double Bacon Cheeseburgers
Cheese and bacon? Sign us up. Well, not so fast—if you're suffering from a hangover, all that processed meat and cheese is going to bloat your digestive system. You have plenty of time later on, after you feel better, to eat whatever your heart desires.
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6. Jalapeño Nachos
Remember how we said chili cheese fries are a no-go? Nachos are off the list, too, sorry. You should especially avoid these if you're experiencing heartburn or acid reflux, as the mix of cheese, spicy peppers, and lots (and lots) of salt is only going to make your morning more terrible.
7. Sour Candy
Sour candy might not be inherently sweet (at least, not on the surface), but a bag of lemon-flavored gummies is still acidic and can only make you more dehydrated. Even sucking on a cough drop would be less abrasive on your stomach!
8. Fried Chicken
Put the plate of crispy fried chicken aside. We know you're tempted, but we also know that once you satisfy that craving of yours, the aftermath will sit uncomfortably at the pit of your stomach. If you really want chicken, go for grilled.
9. Pepperoni Pizza
Have some cold leftover pizza from the rowdy night before? Before you heat them up and stuff yourself full, just know that this unofficial morning-after tradition isn't a smart one. Do yourself a favor and let yourself enjoy a slice after you feel more human.
10. Cream-Filled Pastries
Just like donuts, rich, buttery pastries are loaded with refined carbohydrates, sugary fillings, and sometimes heavy cream. You know where that's going: straight out of your mouth and into the toilet. Unless you're determined to put your stomach through the wringer, save the pastries for dessert tomorrow night.
Of course, we're not saying you can't eat anything good, but treating a hangover is a delicate thing. With that said, here's what you should reach for instead to ease the ache:
1. Applesauce
Sure, applesauce sounds boring and like something only babies eat, but it's because it's so simple that it makes a great hangover food. Don't want to chew? Need something soft and mild? This checks off all your needs. Make sure to go for an unsweetened version if intensely sugary foods aren't sitting right.
2. Plain Baked Potato
Ready for another plain food? You might be tempted to load your potato with cheese, bacon bits, and sour cream, but for your body's sake, save the indulgence for later. The good thing about eating potatoes when you're hungover is that they contain potassium, which can help you regain normal fluid balance.
3. Plain Pasta
Instead of a heavy bowl of chicken alfredo, stick to something light, like a simple bowl of soup macaroni. Since you won't be overwhelmed by strong flavors, your stomach will likely tolerate this meal better. If you can handle it, sprinkle some Parmesan.
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4. Chicken Noodle Soup
Need something warm to soothe your gut? Chicken noodle soup is your savior. The broth provides fluid and a touch of sodium, while the noodles and chicken add some carbohydrates and protein without making you feel too bogged down afterwards. Just remember to keep the seasoning mild, or you could ruin the remedy.
5. Greek Yogurt
If you can take dairy, plain Greek yogurt can provide a boost of protein without being too heavy on your stomach. Depending on what you can tolerate, you can also level it up with some honey (not too much!) and some fresh fruit.
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6. Salmon
Salmon might sound like an odd thing to eat when you're hungover, but it actually provides exactly the stuff your body needs: protein and omega-3 fats. Remember to stick to baked or grilled versions to keep the meal simple and easy on you, and you probably don't need us to remind you to skip the heavy cream sauces.
7. Pretzels
If you're looking for something that has crunch and a bit more flavor, pretzels might help. Nibble through each one, though—don't throw a handful in your mouth. Since they can be dry, you should also pair your snack with some water or a sports drink that'll give you back some electrolytes.
8. Pears
Pear juice is actually a popular hangover remedy in Korea, though only if drunk before you consume alcohol. With that said, munching on the fruit could also reap the same benefits, and softened ripe pears with their natural sweetness (along with lots of water) can be a refreshing option when other foods sound unpleasant.
9. Steamed Dumplings
If bland food is starting to lose its appeal, steamed dumplings might give your bowl a little more flavor. Stick to simple fillings that won't make your stomach churn yet still give you something more substantial, like chicken and vegetables. Go easy on sauces and spicy chili oils—they could ruin the whole dish.
10. A Simple Turkey Sandwich
Once your appetite has properly come back (and with a vengeance), you'll likely want something more filling. Instead of jumping straight back to greasy fast food, though, go for a basic meal as your "test run." A turkey sandwich, for example, can supply both carbohydrates and protein without the heaviness of a fried breakfast. Who knows? It might be just what you need.
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