Woke up after a night of holiday cheer feeling less than stellar? The dreaded hangover is a common consequence of overindulgence. While nursing a hangover, you might wonder if that greasy burger is the cure. But Is Greasy Food Good For A Hangover? Let’s explore what actually helps you recover.
The Science Behind a Hangover
The National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism explains that hangovers are caused by the toxins released when your body metabolizes alcohol. This process can wreak havoc on your liver, pancreas, metabolism, hormones, and immune system. Dehydration and electrolyte imbalance also contribute significantly to those awful hangover symptoms.
Debunking the Greasy Food Myth
Many people crave greasy food when hungover, believing it will “absorb” the alcohol. However, this is a myth. “Most people think that they need to eat greasy food to absorb the alcohol but that isn’t true,” says nutritionist Amy Shapiro. “By then the alcohol has been digested and processed by your body so there is nothing to ‘absorb.’ What you are feeling are the effects of dehydration and low blood sugar.”
The Real Hangover Helpers
Instead of reaching for the greasiest option, focus on these strategies:
- Rehydration: Dehydration is a major cause of hangover symptoms. Rachel Berman, RD, CDN, emphasizes that rehydration is the most important step. Drink plenty of water. Add lemon for flavor, or try coconut water for electrolytes.
- Balance Blood Sugar: Alcohol can cause low blood sugar, contributing to fatigue and irritability. Shapiro suggests, “To bring your blood sugar back up to normal, you really just need to eat anything with some carbs, but balance it out with protein or healthy fats to prevent further blood sugar drops.”
- Soothe Your Stomach: If you’re feeling nauseous, ginger candy or tea can help calm your stomach.
Best Foods to Eat When Hungover
Here are some specific food recommendations to help you bounce back:
Breakfast
Skip the acidic juice and opt for these balanced choices:
- Two eggs with whole wheat toast and fruit or avocado toast (for potassium)
- An omelet with veggies
- Whole wheat toast with almond butter and sliced banana
- A smoothie with coconut water, berries, protein powder, greens, collagen, chia seeds, and avocado
Lunch
Instead of a greasy burger, choose nutrient-rich options:
- Whole wheat toast with peanut butter and a banana
- If you must have a burger, remove the top bun, skip the cheese, and add extra vegetables. Opt for a side salad instead of fries.
Dinner
By dinner, you should be feeling better. If your stomach is still sensitive, try:
- Chicken noodle soup (the sodium helps retain fluids) with half a sandwich
- Roasted vegetables or zoodles with salmon or shrimp, and a half-cup of whole grains or sweet potato
The Verdict
So, is greasy food good for a hangover? The answer is no. While the craving is understandable, greasy foods won’t address the root causes of a hangover. Focus on rehydration, balanced meals, and soothing ingredients to get back on your feet.
