Yes! and No. Many people do think Bloody Mary is a hangover cure drink but that’s not entirely true. Though it helps in managing the hangover symptoms, it does not vanish them as some magic nor it is an actual “cure” for a hangover. Today, our article is about whether you can rely on Bloody Mary for hangovers or if it is just a myth. First, you need to understand
What is a Hangover?
A hangover is a condition that you usually get one day after consuming alcohol. It can be nausea, vomiting, lethargy, headache and sensitivity to light and sound. Now why did this happen? Let us tell you in detail.
When you take alcohol it affects your body. First, alcohol is diuretic and this can lead to dehydration in your body. This dehydration can be triggered by electrolyte imbalance, a result of excessive drinking. This depletion of nutrients can cause lethargy and dizziness.
Alcohol also irritates the stomach lining so it may result in bloating, gastrointestinal problems and nauseating feelings. Moreover, you may get low blood sugar which can cause weakness and lethargic feelings.
Now you know what a is hangover. Let’s see
What Is In Bloody Mary?
Bloody Mary is a famous nightclub drink and has different ingredients. A typical bloody mary recipe includes tomato juice, Vodka, spices and lemon juice. Now do these ingredients help you in hangover symptom management? Let’s see how you can count on Bloody Mary for hangovers.
- Well, tomatoes are rich in vitamins and minerals so yeah, it can make up for lost minerals in the body. (but not that much. You still have to have other supplements too).
- Next, Vodka is alcohol which is the first reason you are having a hangover. But hangovers are like your body withdrawing from alcohol so having alcohol back will lessen those withdrawal symptoms. But how is this a cure? You are wise to know that. Right?
- Then come spices. Usually, these spices are horseradish, hot sauce and pepper. They can help with nauseating symptoms as they can kick your stomach and digestive system to work in your favour.
- Lemon juice in Bloody Mary is the only reliable ingredient that we can count on for an actual hangover cure. it has vitamin C and boosts your overall immune system. Celery is a nutrient but in limited amounts only.
- Salt is added to Bloody Mary too which can help restore lost minerals.
A Basic Bloody Mary Recipe
As we are clear, bloody Mary may not be a total hangover cure but it can surely help you with some symptoms, here is a recipe for you so you can make it in time of need.
- 2 oz vodka
- 4 oz tomato juice
- 0.5 oz lemon juice
- 2 dashes of Worcestershire sauce
- 2 dashes of hot sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Garnish with celery stick, lemon wedge, and olives
Is Using Bloody Mary for Hangovers A Wise Decision?
We are clear that Bloody Mary can help you but it’s not the medical or actual “cure” for hangover. There are a few disadvantages to taking Bloody Mary for hangovers too.
- First, using alcohol to cure alcohol is not at all a wise approach. This may slow down withdrawal symptoms but it will slow down your recovery too.
- Spices can cause inflammation and worsen your stomach condition. So it’s just a short-term fix. For better hangover symptoms, you should rely on a more practical and wise approach. Drink plenty of water, take electrolytes, rest and give your body time to deal with it.
- If you still want to go with Bloody Mary for hangovers, first, don’t overdose yourself second, pair it with these few strategies for maximum results.
- Keep drinking water. Hydrate yourself with all forms of liquids. Take electrolytes, and drink fresh juices, coconut water, or teas to rehydrate your body. We understand that drinking a lot of water can be challenging so we advise going sip by sip. Even soups are very good hydrating food.
- Take a healthy and balanced diet. (eating junk and oily food is another myth for curing hangovers). You can eat bananas which are rich in potassium, crackers that can be helpful for nausea and eggs that can help break down toxins.
- Get sleep, sleep deprivation weakens your body and worsens your symptoms. Take a warm bath. Do light yoga, and give yourself a spa feeling at home. Avoid any pressure or high-stress work. Avoid heavy exercise and workout too.
- If you are having body aches, try pain relievers. Ibuprofen or aspirin can help reduce symptoms and antacids can provide relief in stomach discomfort and heartburns. However, never take these medicines without advice from your doctor. As simple and common as they are, medical recommendation is important.
- Drink some herbal tea to improve your nausea. Ginger or peppermint tea are refreshing and are natural remedies to cure nausea.
- Avoid more alcohol. Give your body a break because more alcohol means more dehydration and hangovers. Instead, focus on non-alcoholic drinks for recovery.
- Take vitamin supplements to make up for lost nutrients in the body. Vitamin B complex supplement and vitamin C are good to go for detoxification.
In short,
So Now we know you can rely on Bloody Mary for hangovers. It may help you feel better but it’s not an actual cure. It is just a delaying tactic so the body may not feel bad for withdrawing from alcohol. For a better cure, try planning beforehand. We suggest, taking alcohol in moderation. Eat before drinking alcohol so it can slow down alcohol absorption in the body. Also, know your limits and when to stop! Be wise and treat your body as a temple.