Can any foods cure a hangover?
We’ve all been there. You wake up feeling nauseous, with a dry mouth and pounding head, after a few too many drinks the night before.
Could eating the right foods be a miracle cure? A quick internet search brings up a multitude of possibilities, from the obvious (drink lots of water) to the disgusting (neck raw egg white). But science seems to say 'no', food cannot magically reverse the damage done and cure your hangover.
Among other things, alcohol reduces the absorption of key vitamins (B1, B12, folic acid and zinc). It also makes you pee more, so water-soluble vitamins (C and B group) are the most likely to be reduced after a night of heavy drinking. It makes sense that some foods will replenish those depleted nutrients better than others.
This ridiculously easy breakfast dish will load you up with carbs, protein and lots of vitamins and minerals (if you can stomach it). Watch our short video below to see how to make it. Serve with a glass of orange juice for extra vitamin C.
Why might this dish help? It includes two key ingredients to bring your energy levels back up:
Eggs
We’re not suggesting you neck a raw egg. But eggs are packed with vitamins and minerals, including the all-important B12, which is depleted as a result of the body metabolising and eliminating alcohol. B12 is vital for keeping the nervous system healthy and releasing energy from food. Eggs also contain vitamins A, D and B2 and are a good source of protein, which the body breaks down into amino acids that can help the liver deal with alcohol.
Baked beans
Just like eggs, beans contain protein. Baked beans are a good source of folic acid and zinc. They also contain added salts and sugars, which may help address some of the damage done through dehydration. They provide slow-release carbs too, which will give you energy throughout the morning. If you’re not making the recipe above, try spreading some yeast extract on toast for added B12.
More breakfasts for a hangover
Avocado on toast – craving something green? Avocado is a good option. It’s rich in vitamins, especially B6. It’s also full of monounsaturated fatty acids, which your body needs to stay healthy.
Coconut water – dehydration is one of the main causes of hangover symptoms. As well as rehydrating you, coconut water contains electrolytes (salts and minerals found in the blood) such as potassium and sodium, plus sugars, which will help replenish vital stores.
Porridge – oats give a carb-based energy boost, with added fibre and minerals. They contain magnesium and zinc, which help the body release energy from food. Add berries for extra vitamin C and antioxidants.
