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Hangover SOS

Many of us love a little tipple as much as we hate the morning after. Here’s how to recover, according to the experts.

Portrait of Tammy Strobel

Many of us love a little tipple as much as we hate the morning after. Here’s how to recover, according to the experts.

Text Lee Xin Hui Photo Jalag/Jessen, Maike/Seasons Agency
Text Lee Xin Hui Photo Jalag/Jessen, Maike/Seasons Agency

Eat salmon and cucumber for breakfast
Ignore your craving for greasy fried food because it can irritate an already-sensitive stomach. “Cucumbers are high in water and electrolytes, which can reduce the intensity of hangover headaches; and salmon, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, helps combat inflammation in the body.” – Clement Gan, nutritionist

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Have sex
“A hangover may not put you in a sexy mood, but a hot session could help you overcome your post-drinking pain faster. How? It’ll take your mind off your discomfort by lessening a headache (thanks to the release of endorphins), at least temporarily.” – Martha Tara Lee, clinical sexologist at Eros Coaching

Photo Getty Images Food Photo Veronica Tay
Photo Getty Images Food Photo Veronica Tay

Take paracetamol or ibuprofen with a glass of water
But don’t just opt for a ladylike sip, “because hangovers indicate dehydration and loss of minerals, so gulping down as much water as possible with your tablets can help to lessen a stomach upset or pounding headache.” – Dr Christina Low, medical director and consultant at SMG Medical

Do low-impact exercises
“Slow jogging or simple stretching exercises can encourage an endorphin release, which will boost your mood. What to avoid: high-intensity workouts, which might make you feel even more queasy. Instead, opt for weights or cycling, which won’t put so much strain on your already-there pain.” – Pearly Ng, personal trainer and co-owner of The System Gym

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Down unsweetened coconut water
If your fail-safe cure is the sofa and a box set, at least share the moment with some coconut water. “It’s hydrating, helps to replenish the minerals in your blood – a lack of which results in hangover symptoms – and is a healthier alternative to sugar-laden sports drinks.” Tip: It also works as a great mixer! – Caryn Cheah, Bacardi-Martini Singapore brand ambassador

HUNG-OVER OR STILL DRUNK?
It is possible to experience both (especially if you continue drinking in the morning), but here’s how to tell: Generally, you’re no longer drunk when you have a hangover, which consists of the residual eff ects of being drunk, like a headache, dehydration and dizziness. However, if you wake up feeling awesome and start talking to inanimate objects… you know what that means!

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