Does Coffee Help with Hangovers? | Unpack The Science Behind

If you’ve ever had a hangover, then you know that the headache and exhaustion can be debilitating. You might feel like there’s nothing you can do to reduce the dreaded symptoms, so reaching for another drink or coffee might seem like an easy way out. But does coffee help with hangover? Many people think it will make them feel better faster – but is this claim backed up in any research? We’ll unpack the science behind how caffeine affects hangovers and what other remedies may be more effective than reaching for your daily brew.

What Is A Hangover?

A hangover is an after-effect of drinking too much alcohol. It typically starts a few hours after your last drink and can include symptoms such as headache, fatigue, nausea, dehydration, dry mouth, dizziness, and sensitivity to light and sound.1 These effects can last for several hours or even the whole day depending on how much alcohol you consumed.

Does Coffee Help With Hangover?

Does coffee help with hangover? The short answer is: not really. While caffeine is a stimulant that can make you feel more alert, it won’t do much to reduce the other symptoms associated with hangovers like headaches and fatigue. In fact, some studies have even suggested that drinking coffee during a hangover can actually make the symptoms worse due to the dehydration it causes.

How Does Coffee Help With A Hangover?

While coffee won’t help with the symptoms of a hangover, it can have some benefits of does coffee help with hangover:

Headaches

Alcohol consumption can lead to an unpleasant reckoning, in the form of a splitting headache. To combat this discomfort, heavy coffee drinkers may find relief with caffeine blocking acetate production – but it’s important to remember that too much java can also worsen existing hangover headaches due its vasoconstrictor properties.

Nausea

Studies have suggested that caffeine may help reduce feelings of nausea in those suffering from a hangover. Caffeine stimulates the central nervous system and can act as an anti-nausea agent, but should be consumed in moderation to avoid feeling worse later on.

Dehydration

Due to its diuretic properties, coffee can actually help with dehydration caused by alcohol consumption. It should be noted that while coffee may make you feel hydrated, it won’t replace the electrolytes and fluids your body needs to recover from a hangover.

Poor concentration and alertness

Caffeine can help increase alertness and focus, making it easier to get through the day. However, it’s important to remember that coffee isn’t a miracle cure for your hangover woes and should be consumed in moderation.

Can’t sleep or experiencing restless sleep

Caffeine is a stimulant and can make it harder to fall asleep after drinking alcohol. But, if you’re feeling drowsy or need an energy boost, moderate amounts of coffee may be beneficial in helping you stay awake and alert during the day.

Benefits Of Drinking Coffee With A Hangover

The main benefit of drinking coffee when you have a hangover is that it can help you feel more alert and focused. However, it’s important to remember that caffeine doesn’t address the underlying issues associated with a hangover like dehydration or electrolyte imbalance. So while it may be tempting to reach for that cup of Joe, it’s best to focus on hydrating and replenishing your electrolytes.

What Type Of Coffee Is Best For A Hangover?

In terms of which type of coffee is best for a hangover, opt for cold brew or iced coffee instead of hot brewed. Cold brew and iced coffee provide the same stimulating effects without any added sugar or cream that can put more stress on your body. Additionally, try to drink plenty of water throughout the day to help rehydrate and replace the electrolytes that were lost during the night of drinking.

How To Make The Perfect Cup Of Coffee For A Hangover?

Making the perfect cup of coffee for a hangover is easy. Start off by using cold brew or iced coffee to minimize any additional stress on your body, and then add in your desired amount of milk or cream if you like. If you need an extra boost of energy, try adding some honey or agave syrup to sweeten it up. Finally, make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day to help combat any dehydration or electrolyte imbalances caused by a night of drinking.

See also: how much caffeine is in death wish coffee

Tips For Drinking Coffee When Suffering From A Hangover 

When it comes to drinking coffee when you’re suffering from a hangover, moderation is key. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day and opt for cold brew or iced coffee instead of hot brewed. Additionally, if you need an extra boost of energy, try adding some honey or agave syrup to sweeten it up. Lastly, remember that coffee won’t make your hangover magically disappear, so focus on hydrating and replenishing your electrolytes first.

When Should You Drink Coffee For A Hangover?

When it comes to drinking coffee when you’re suffering from a hangover, it’s best to wait until the afternoon or early evening. Caffeine is a stimulant and can make it harder to fall asleep after drinking alcohol, so if you want to get some rest opt for decaf or herbal teas instead.

When To Seek Medical Attention If Your Hangover Persists?

If your hangover persists despite drinking coffee and other remedies, it’s best to seek medical attention. Hangovers can be a sign of alcohol poisoning or other underlying medical issues, so it’s important to get checked out by a doctor if symptoms don’t seem to go away.

Alternatives To Drinking Coffee For Hangover Relief

If you don’t want to drink coffee, there are other alternatives to help with hangover relief. Hydration is key and drinking plenty of water throughout the day will help combat dehydration. Additionally, replenishing lost electrolytes with a sports drink or coconut water can also be beneficial in helping you feel better faster.

Finally, getting some rest and eating a nourishing breakfast can also do wonders to help reduce the effects of a hangover.

Conclusion: does coffee help with hangover

In conclusion, while moderate amounts of coffee may be beneficial in helping stay alert and awake during the day, it’s important to remember that caffeine doesn’t address the underlying issues associated with a hangover like dehydration or electrolyte imbalance. Additionally, it’s best to drink cold brew or iced coffee instead of hot brewed and make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Lastly, if symptoms don’t seem to go away and persist, it’s important to seek medical attention.

FAQs: hangover

How do you cure a hangover fast?

The best way to cure a hangover fast is to stay hydrated and replenish lost electrolytes. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day and opting for sports drinks or coconut water can help combat dehydration. Additionally, eating a nourishing breakfast and getting some rest are also beneficial in helping reduce the effects of a hangover.

What makes hangovers worse?

Uncover the hidden ingredients behind the taste and aroma of alcoholic beverages. Congeners, non-alcohol compounds formed during fermentation, play a crucial role. Discover how darker spirits like bourbon, with their higher congener levels, may amplify hangover woes.

Can anything really help a hangover?

Dealing with a hangover is tough, especially when it comes with symptoms like diarrhea, excessive sweating, or vomiting. But did you know that these symptoms can leave you even more dehydrated? That’s why it’s crucial to keep yourself hydrated even if you’re feeling nauseous. Just a few sips of water could make all the difference in easing your hangover.

Does caffeine make a hangover better or worse?

Are you risking a massive hangover headache by skipping your morning caffeine fix? Turns out, caffeine actually worsens hangovers by narrowing your blood vessels and raising your blood pressure.

How long do hangovers last?

Suffering from a hangover? Don’t fret – it typically goes away within 24 hours. However, those 24 hours can be quite challenging with symptoms such as fatigue, headaches, nausea, and more. Don’t let a hangover ruin your day, find out how to alleviate these unpleasant effects now.

Can caffeine in coffee give you a hangover?

“Unlock the truth about caffeine: its impact on your body may surprise you. Discover how caffeine’s diuretic effects can lead to dehydration and trigger pounding dehydration headaches.”

Do showers help hangovers?

Kickstart your recovery from a hangover with a refreshing shower. Boost your circulation and get your blood flowing to ease those symptoms. While it won’t provide instant relief, it certainly won’t hinder your recovery either. Try it out and feel the difference.

Does coffee help with hangover dizziness?

Looking for a hangover cure? Sorry, coffee is not the answer. In fact, it might make things worse. Like alcohol, coffee contains caffeine, which can dehydrate your body and make hangover symptoms last longer. Don’t rely on that morning cup of joe to cure your headache!

Is coffee and lemon good for hangover?

When you’re feeling the effects of a hangover, coffee and lemon might give an energizing boost. But to truly address underlying issues like dehydration or electrolyte imbalance, reach for cold brew or iced coffee and drink plenty of water throughout your day.

Can you drink to avoid a hangover?

Hangovers can be less severe if you follow a few strategies. Firstly, steer clear of drinks with high levels of congeners. Next, make sure to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. It’s also important to get enough sleep and nourish your body with a healthy breakfast. However, the most effective way to avoid a hangover is to either drink in moderation or not drink at all.

What drinks don’t give hangover?

“Discover the secret to a hangover-free experience with vodka, the ultimate choice among alcoholic beverages. Gin, light rum, and white wine also make the cut as worthy contenders, while brandy and whiskey lag behind as less desirable options.”