On Holidays most of us gather around the table and enjoy the time spent with the dear ones. The food is richer and fattier than usual, the reunited family is also another reason to party and this is why the number of glasses accompanying the Christmas or New Year’s Eve meals may exceed the proper quantity.

The hangover is due to the dehydration that is caused in this case, by the excessive alcohol consumption, In other words, in order to avoid the hangover, the body has to be hydrated alternating alcoholic drinks with still or sparkling water to replenish the quantity of water.

First of all, if you have not drunk water during the evening, it is recommended to drink at least two big glasses of water (minimum 400 ml) before sleeping. This way, the body rests having a significant quantity of water to stop further dehydration. It is preferable not to use pills because the bowels mucous membrane is already irritated from the alcohol and the absorption can be slowed down, and the liver has one more task to accomplish – to metabolise the pills besides the alcohol sugar. Moreover the alcohol may accentuate the side effects of some pills.

The next day it is preferable to consume a lot of liquids, first of all still water. The myth that says that water brings back the drunkenness is false as during the rehydration process the body redistributes the consumed water in the body. The water may be consumed as well from foods such as soups or sour soups but it is preferable to avoid fat, too sour or too salty foods that attack the digestive system already put to the test.

After all, in order to fight the hangover you have two extremely simple and accessible remedies: plenty of water and a long nap.

Happy Holidays, with no excess!