Thousands of Americans plan to say farewell to 2023 and welcome in the new year by imbibing in alcoholic beverages, but the joyous celebration on New Year’s Eve can result in an ill-fated start to 2024.
A Civic Science study published on Wednesday found that more than one-third of Americans are likely to partake in drinking alcohol on New Year’s Eve. Considering 37 percent of survey takers have it planned, chances are high that at least some of them will wake up with a raging hangover on New Year’s Day.
A throbbing headache, vertigo and upset stomach aren’t anyone’s favorite way to wake up, especially on January 1, and the unpleasant hangover could have some sufferers desperately searching for how to rid themselves of the symptoms.
The day after one—or several—too many, some people might choose to stick to what they consider tried-and-true hangover remedies—everything from consuming salty food to suffering through one extra drink the morning after, commonly known as hair of the dog.
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Others swear by eating foods rich in potassium, like bananas, or chugging water and electrolytes to restore their hydration levels. Or, if you’re feeling daring, you could take Jeopardy! host Ken Jennings’ advice and sip on some pickle juice.
Others might take their efforts a step further by consuming certain supplements, such as prickly pear, red ginseng or Korean pear, according to a 2021 Insider report.
When the thought of consuming anything, be it water, food or pills, seems too much to bear, others might resort to different tactics, such as wearing anti-nausea wristbands often used for nausea associated with car or sea sickness.
However, what works for one person might only make matters worse for another. And, unfortunately, medical experts suggest that letting the problem run its course might be the only way to rid yourself of the symptoms.
Dr. Robert Beam, a family medicine specialist at Novant Health-GoHealth Urgent Care in Kernersville, North Carolina, previously told Newsweek that the only way to eliminate the possibility of a hangover is to not drink.
“Abstention is the only way to limit the risk completely, but in reasonable terms, that’s not going to happen,” Beam said. “So, stick to the lighter-colored alcohol, stick to water in between drinks of alcohol and consume alcohol on a full stomach.”
While some so-called cures might work depending on the person, Beam advised against others.
“There’s no evidence that the hair of the dog will do anything but delay the ultimate hangover,” Beam said.
Newsweek reached out to the American Board of Family Medicine by email for comment.
Most hangovers resolve themselves within 24 hours, although the idea that recovery is hours within reach still might not be enough to keep people from regretting their decision to clink glasses of champagne or other beverages on New Year’s Eve.
Uncommon Knowledge
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.