Kourtney Kardashian
So you went out and had a few too many cocktails or pours of vino—it happens to the best of us (maybe a little too often, but we’re not judging). The night was a blast and all, but then you wake up and … the hangover hits. You’ve checked in on your Instagram, crossing your fingers you didn’t post anything regrettable or text an ex—the coast is clear, give yourself a pat on the back. But back to the pounding headache and grueling stomachache, which are still lingering from the night before. This is where we let Dr. Mona Vand, a pharmacist who specializes in wellness for body and mind using natural solutions, step in to share six all-natural hangover remedies (that actually work and are significantly better for you).
“What alcohol essentially does to your body is dehydrate it. This is because it inhibits the pituitary gland (a hormone-producing gland) from secreting vasopressin, which ultimately means that the kidneys are not able to absorb as much water. Loss of water causes an electrolyte imbalance, which means that you’re now dehydrated and probably feeling headache-y and fatigued. To combat this, the obvious response is to drink lots of water (which I 100% encourage), but drinking fresh coconut water, in particular, is really going to help rehydrate you and replenish those electrolytes that you lost. Drink it plain or add it to a smoothie if you don’t like the taste.”
“Milk thistle has long been touted as a natural liver cleanser and detoxifier and is known to help stop certain toxins from binding in your body. Drinking milk thistle tea (which can usually be found at a health food store or on Amazon) will help to naturally protect your body from the repercussions of drinking, and on top of that, it will also help lessen the dreaded hangover symptoms.”
“Ginger has been known to be beneficial in so many different ways by ancient cultures and in homeopathic medicine. In fact, researchers have studied the effects of ginger and have proven that it can really help to decrease nausea and vomiting (which is definitely necessary here!). I recommend finely chopping up some fresh ginger or even blending some and pouring it into some hot water with lemon—this will help to relieve your stomach and your hangover.”
“If fresh fruit and veggies sound absolutely horrible (sometimes they’re not the most appetizing when hungover), I highly recommend starting with a green smoothie. One of the worst things you can do is starve yourself during a hangover and not fuel your body with nourishing food, so this should make it a little easier to get the nutrients you need to ease your symptoms. Add in two cups spinach, one cup kale, one stalk celery, half a cup filtered water, half a cup coconut water, half a banana, one apple (sliced), juice of one lemon, and a few slices of fresh turmeric. Blend and enjoy.”
“Getting up, walking, or stretching may seem virtually impossible when you’re in your current state of hungover, but I promise you, adding in some light movement can make all the difference. Try to go on a brisk 20-minute walk or add in some long, purposeful stretches in the morning. The more you sweat, the better. Sweating is literally a form of detox, so it will help your body get rid of all those unwelcome toxins from the night before.”
“Wake up, roll out of bed, and jump into the shower. Start with hot water (per usual) and then when you’re about to get out, turn the temperature to cold and stand for a while. I know this sounds miserable (and it kind of is), but going from hot to cold water can increase circulation and toxin elimination, and it’s such an easy way to naturally ease your hangover.”
About Dr. Mona Vand: As a pharmacist, I understand wellness at a chemical level. Most pharmacists believe in filling prescriptions. I believe in a healthy lifestyle. Medication is only part of the equation for maximum health. Wellness stems from diet, exercise, and mindset. Learn more about Dr. Mona Vand by visiting her website www.drmonavand.com.
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