Alcohol Induced Hangover

Overview

Consumption of alcohol results in the formation of two toxic compounds: acetaldehyde and malondialdehyde. Both allow for massive free radical damage. If combinations of antioxidants are taken before consuming alcohol and before going to bed after consuming alcohol, much of the cellular damage caused by alcohol can be avoided. Aging makes us more vulnerable to alcohol-induced injury, and also makes recovery more difficult.

Back to Top

Symptoms

A typical hangover is the result of excessive drinking and may include nausea and vomit, headache, vertigo, dizziness, redness of the eyes, muscle soreness, extreme thirst, sensitivity to light, mood changes, and fatigue.

Back to Top

Management

The nutrients that protect the body against cellular damage and hangover include:

  • Vitamin C
  • Vitamin B
  • S-acetyl cysteine
  • Glutathione
  • Vitamin E
  • Selenium

These nutrients can protect against alcohol-induced vascular injury to the brain. Also N-acetyl cysteine binds acetaldehyde, and Kyolic Garlic Formula 105.

Alcohol damages the liver by depressing the enzyme that converts methionine to S-adenosyl-methionine (SAMe). Other supplements to prevent this type of injury include:

  • Trimethylglycine (Glycine Betaine)
  • Folic Acid
  • B12

The below three all play part in helping the liver synthesize SAMe:

  • Probiotics plus fructo-oligosaccharide - 30% of alcoholics develop "leaky gut" syndrome.
  • Magnesium - this prevents excessive migration of calcium into endothelial cells
  • Milk Thistle Extract PPC (polyenylphosphatidylcholine - 900 mg prior to alcoholic consumption)

The only true prevention is avoiding excess alcohol consumption. Post hangover, the most proven management is time; most hangovers end 24-48 hours after consumption.

Back to Top