Alcohol doesn’t feature much as a healthy addition to our diets (Eat Beautiful! doesn’t mention alcohol much). I can lie and say I’m completely chaste during party season, but I love a glass or two of champagne to celebrate. However, as the amount of alcohol increases, so does the risk of a hangover, which is not very fun for everyone. So how can you avoid spending party season under the influence of all the fun? By eating the right foods before and after drinking, of course. Here, we’ve compiled the best foods to add to your meals on the day of your Christmas party and afterwards to avoid hangovers as much as possible.
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what to eat before drinking
First of all, it is important to eat something properly. Too many people go drinking right after work, forgetting to eat and keep drinking, and this is a recipe for disaster. Ensuring you eat a proper meal before you start drinking alcohol will greatly reduce your chances of getting a hangover.
Nutritionist Kim Pearson says, “Before you drink alcohol, choose a meal that combines protein, healthy fats, and slow-release carbohydrates. The amino acids found in protein support the liver’s detoxification process, and foods rich in antioxidants can help protect your body from harmful free radicals produced by alcohol.” Something like fish with brown rice and vegetables is perfect for a pre-party dinner. If you’re hosting a dinner party, try Eat Beautiful’s vegetable pilaf and brown rice recipe.
In the evening, try to alternate drinks with water and, if possible, continue drinking the same drink.
What should you eat the morning after drinking alcohol?
The first thing you want the next morning is a big glass of water. I always drink Berocca to replenish my B vitamins. Milk thistle is also a vitamin that helps support the liver. Coconut water not only hydrates you but is also rich in electrolytes, making it a great drink after drinking alcohol.
“Breakfast the morning after a drink should consist of the same key ingredients: slow-release carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats,” says Kim. “Carbohydrates can help settle your stomach, but avoid refined carbohydrates and choose healthy alternatives like oats.”
Porridge topped with fruit (be sure to include bananas, which are rich in magnesium) and nuts is also a good option. Of course, eggs and avocado on rye toast also make a great breakfast. In fact, why not book brunch for the next morning and enjoy a well-rounded debrief with friends while enjoying a hangover-proof breakfast?
If your dietary precautions haven’t worked and you’re still having a headache, check out my How to Cure a Hangover post.
…And if you have a big event or important errand and want to spend a little extra to get your morning pick up, go get a vitamin infusion at Reviv or Dr Joshi.
Find more hero foods and recipes in my Eat Beautiful book
Read next: Healthy eating: expert advice
©Wendy Rowe. Unauthorized reproduction is prohibited.
