Electrolytes and vitamins for hangovers

A hangover is an ailment caused by a wide range of factors. Acetaldehyde poisoning, which occurs after alcohol is ‘digested’, dehydration caused by the diuretic effect of alcohol, and finally, short sleep are some of them.

In addition, there are factors that increase the negative side effects of drunkenness. For example, dancing or eating highly processed foods rich in sugars and salt can also contribute to feeling unwell in the morning. Fortunately, a hangover can be alleviated to some extent with nutritional supplements.

1. Electrolytes for a hangover
2. Vitamins for hangovers
3. Other methods of treating a hangover

Electrolytes for a hangover

Disturbances in the body's water and electrolyte balance, which can occur as a result of alcohol consumption, are one of the reasons why you look a little slimmer in the morning. This is partly due to increased urination and partly to additional factors such as dancing. However, it is worth knowing that this slimmer appearance is deceptive, as it is actually a state of dehydration, which has a negative effect on cells and entire tissues in the body.

Sodium, chlorine, potassium and magnesium are excreted in urine and sweat, which can lead to dizziness and headaches, neuromuscular weakness and concentration problems. Electrolytes are therefore the primary means of preventing and treating hangovers and the associated dehydration. Electrolyte preparations are usually enriched with glucose, as it aids the absorption of electrolytes from the gastrointestinal tract. Sometimes they also contain vitamins.

Vitamins for hangovers

The most important vitamin for treating hangovers is vitamin C. It has powerful antioxidant properties, which are important for alleviating the toxic effects of alcohol on cells in tissues. The greatest threats to cells are acetaldehyde, which is produced during the metabolism of ethyl alcohol, and methyl alcohol, which contaminates some alcoholic beverages. These are dangerous not only to liver cells, but also to the nervous system.

Other vitamins whose levels may be reduced by alcohol consumption include certain B vitamins. Particular attention should be paid to vitamins B1 (thiamine), B3 (niacin), B6 (pyridoxine) and B9 (folic acid). While a single night of drinking should not significantly impair your B vitamin status, regular drinking very often leads to deficiencies in these compounds.

Other methods of treating a hangover

Electrolytes and vitamins are not the only things that can help with a hangover. Pain can be reduced to some extent by using cannabidiol (CBD), for example. Weakness and lethargy can be reduced with Rhodiola rosea or choline alfoscerate (alpha-GPC).

Rhodiola contains compounds that can affect the levels of serotonin, dopamine and noradrenaline, which are responsible for increasing feelings of satisfaction, motivation and mobilisation to act, while alpha-GPC stimulates brain and muscle function by increasing the production of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter involved in memory processes and muscle contractions. In addition, alpha-GPC helps protect the liver.