So, as awards season approaches fast – unless you work on the Drum, when it never goes away – this week, dear Foxy fans, I have some top tips on how to ensure you’re not feeling too worse for wear in the morning.
Naturally, most of us have experienced those hideous effects of a night out, but apparently what some people don’t realise is that the choice of beverage plays a primary role in how severe those effects are.
According to Daniel Ufland of online whisky retailer The Whisky Masters, the drink you choose can make all the difference when it comes to the intensity of your hangover.
You see, backed by scientific studies, the presence of congeners in certain alcohols is key in determining how you’ll feel the next morning. They are present in higher quantities in darker alcohols, contributing to symptoms like horrendous headaches, heavy heaves, and general malaise.
So, what should you avoid if you want to dodge a brutal hangover? Well, here goes…
Red Wine: Severe Headaches and Sensitivity to Light. Loaded with tannins and histamines, red wine will leave your head, lips and hips in a bit of a stir if you over-do it.
Cheap Spirits: Pounding Headaches. Budget-friendly but body-punishing, cheap spirits often contain more impurities than premium products. These impurities make recovery slower, and the symptoms last longer.
Dark Spirits (Whisky): Severe Headaches. Whisky is one of the more congener-rich alcohols. The deep, smoky, woodgrain flavours may be appealing during the night, but the next day can bring a lingering malaise, making it one of the worst choices for avoiding a hangover.
Tequila: Headaches and Loss of Appetite. While 20 shots of tequila might seem like a good idea at the time, they often lead to a rough morning. It also causes a loss of appetite, a common post-tequila symptom.
Rum: Dizziness and Dehydration. Rum, especially darker varieties, can lead to dizziness and severe dehydration. Its sugar content may also contribute to headaches, leaving you feeling worse for wear the next morning.
Daniel added: “Your drink choice plays a huge role in how you feel the next morning. Darker spirits like whiskey and red wine are loaded with congeners – substances that increase the severity of hangovers. On the other hand, clearer spirits like vodka contain fewer congeners, making for a milder recovery.
“We’ve all heard the saying ‘drink in moderation,’ but it’s also important to know that drinking water between alcoholic beverages and before bed can make a massive difference. What’s more, avoiding sugary mixers and sticking to higher-quality alcohol can help reduce those dreaded morning-after symptoms. By being mindful of what you drink and how you stay hydrated, you can enjoy your night without paying the price the next day.”
On the other hand, you could just follow my esteemed editor’s advice and keep on drinking. After all, it’s when you stop boozing that the troubles start, so just push on through…
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