Top 14 Hangover Remedies: Foods and Drinks To Help You Recover

Waking up after a night of celebration and too many drinks? The pounding headache, queasy stomach, and parched mouth are classic signs of a hangover—a not-so-gentle reminder from your body that it needs some TLC. While there’s no instant cure for a hangover, certain foods and drinks can significantly ease your symptoms and help you get back on your feet faster. Below, you’ll find a comprehensive list of the best hangover remedies, expert insights into why they work, and practical tips for making your recovery smoother.

Understanding Hangover Symptoms and Causes

Hangovers arise due to the body metabolizing alcohol, which leads to dehydration, depleted electrolytes, irritation of the stomach lining, and fluctuating blood sugar levels. Typical symptoms include:

• Headache and sensitivity to light or sound
• Fatigue and muscle aches
• Nausea or stomach discomfort
• Dizziness and feeling generally unwell
• Increased thirst and dry mouth

The remedies below are hand-picked to address these effects, using nutritional strategies and comfort food traditions that both science and generations of partygoers support.

1. Chicken Noodle Soup

There’s a reason this comfort food staple tops the list for colds and hangovers. A warm bowl of chicken noodle soup is rich in sodium and fluids, helping to restore electrolytes and hydrate the body. The carbohydrates in the noodles help stabilize blood sugar levels, which can plummet after alcohol intake. Lastly, the warmth of the broth is soothing on an upset stomach and may help ease nausea.
Try keeping canned or homemade chicken soup on hand for mornings when you need a gentle, hydrating meal.

2. Eggs

Eggs are quick to cook and nutrient-dense. They’re packed with high-quality protein and contain cysteine, an amino acid that helps break down acetaldehyde—the toxic byproduct of alcohol metabolism. Nutritionists advise sticking to simple preparations, like scrambled eggs or an omelet, and pairing them with plain toast for extra comfort. Avoid fatty sides like bacon or sausage, which can make stomach discomfort worse.

3. Leafy Greens

Vegetables like spinach and kale are rich in chlorophyll, which some experts believe helps neutralize toxins. They’re also excellent sources of magnesium, iron, and vitamins, all of which can become depleted after heavy drinking. Toss spinach into smoothies, a salad, or simply sauté it with garlic (which may further support liver detoxification).

4. Bananas

Bananas are a classic for hangover relief thanks to their high potassium content. Alcohol is a diuretic, so it leads to the loss of electrolytes like potassium—contributing to muscle weakness and fatigue. Eating a banana is a low-effort way to boost potassium, provide a bit of natural sugar, and help restore your energy.

5. Oats

A warm cup of oatmeal is bland enough to settle an uneasy stomach, but it’s also loaded with vitamins, fiber, and slow-digesting carbohydrates. Oats help stabilize your blood sugar and offer B vitamins that support your body’s metabolic recovery.

6. Salmon

Salmon is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory effects. This matters because inflammation rises after drinking alcohol. Salmon also provides protein, vitamin B12 (often depleted after drinking), and can be easy to prepare as smoked, baked, or grilled fillets.

7. Bone Broth

Rich in minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium, bone broth is another traditional remedy that helps replenish lost electrolytes and fluids. It’s especially soothing when sipped warm, and it’s gentle enough on the stomach when nothing else is appealing.

8. Pickles and Pickle Juice

The salty, sour crunch of pickles and a shot of pickle juice are often recommended by bartenders and chefs for replenishing sodium and easing a queasy stomach. The vinegar may also help settle nausea. Drink pickle juice carefully—a few sips is usually enough.

9. Crackers and Toast

Simple carbohydrates like crackers or plain toast can be a lifesaver when you’re too nauseated for a full meal. Dry carbs help absorb stomach acid and provide a quick source of energy to restore depleted glucose levels. Avoid adding rich toppings; keep it bland and simple.

10. Watermelon

Watermelon is over 90% water, making it highly effective for rehydration. It also contains natural sugar (fructose) and L-citrulline, which may assist blood flow, easing headaches and fatigue. A few chilled slices can be both refreshing and hydrating.

11. Avocado

Avocado is packed with potassium, healthy fats, and fiber. It’s easy to eat spread on toast or straight from the skin, and its healthy fat content can help ease inflammation and restore some of the nutrients lost during a night of drinking.

12. Ginger Tea

Ginger is a classic remedy for nausea. Steep a few slices of fresh ginger in hot water for a calming herbal tea that may help settle your stomach and alleviate morning sickness. Drink slowly, especially if you’re feeling dizzy.

13. Smoothies

Blending together bananas, leafy greens, and hydrating fruits like berries or watermelon can make a smoothie that’s both gentle on the stomach and loaded with vitamins. Add coconut water or milk for extra electrolytes and creaminess. Smoothies are ideal when solid food is unappealing but you need nutrients quickly.

14. Soda Water with Bitters and Lime

Bartenders have long recommended a simple cocktail of soda water, lime juice, and Angostura bitters. This combination has been used since the 19th century to soothe upset stomachs and is still favored today as a hangover remedy. The bitters contain herbal compounds that help settle nausea, while soda water rehydrates and lime adds vitamin C.

• 12 ounces soda water
• Juice of 1 lime
• 6 dashes Angostura bitters

Some people like to jazz it up with a pinch of salt, olive juice, or even pickle juice for a savory boost.

Additional Hangover Recovery Tips

• Hydrate early and often: Start drinking water as soon as you wake up, and continue throughout the day. Coconut water or electrolyte drinks can help replace lost minerals.
• Sleep if you can: Your body needs rest to repair itself; naps may help if nighttime sleep was poor.
• Stay away from greasy food: While popular, greasy or fried foods can irritate your stomach further and slow recovery. Opt for easy-to-digest options first.
• Gentle activity: If you feel up to it, a short walk can improve circulation and boost energy.

Table: International Hangover Remedies

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Hangover Remedies

Q: What causes a hangover?

A: Hangovers are caused by the body metabolizing alcohol, leading to dehydration, electrolyte loss, stomach irritation, and lowered blood sugar.

Q: Is greasy food a good hangover cure?

A: While greasy food is popular, experts recommend lighter options like eggs or soup, as greasy foods may worsen nausea and digestive issues.

Q: Does drinking coffee help a hangover?

A: Coffee may temporarily boost alertness but can increase dehydration if not balanced with water. Stick with water or hydrating fluids first.

Q: What’s the fastest way to feel better after drinking?

A: Focus on rehydration, eating simple nutrient-rich foods, resting, and avoiding further alcohol until your body recovers fully.

Q: Are there any proven “cures” for a hangover?

A: There is no truly instant cure, but combinations of hydration, gentle food, and rest can dramatically reduce symptoms and speed up recovery.

Conclusion: Build Your Hangover Recovery Toolkit

While prevention (limiting alcohol, drinking water throughout the night, and eating beforehand) is the best medicine, these 14 foods and drinks provide powerful support for the morning after. Keep them stocked at home and experiment to find which remedies work best for your body. Remember, recovery takes time—so treat yourself gently, hydrate, and nourish your system as it bounces back.

Author

Srija Burman

 

Srija holds an MA in English Literature from the University of Calcutta and a PG diploma in Editing and Publishing from Jadavpur University. Her interest in writing and editing ranges across niches, including academics, sports, and human psychology.

Read full bio of Srija Burman