British consultant doctor Hussain Ahmad and nutritionist Clifford Stephan were referenced by Daily Mail as suggesting that avoiding coffee and common painkillers may help after a night of drinking. Their guidance emphasizes hydration with a twist: water infused with lemon and a pinch of sea salt to restore fluid balance.
According to a medical professional associated with a UK clinic, it takes roughly two to three hours to metabolize a single alcoholic drink. When larger amounts are consumed, the body needs proportionally more time to process them. In practical terms, the effects of heavy drinking can extend into the following day, and it commonly takes about 12 hours for ethyl alcohol to clear from the bloodstream. The remaining recovery period varies by individual, depending on factors like body weight, liver health, and recent food intake. The clinician notes that consuming alcohol with meals may lessen the immediate feeling of intoxication, but it does not eliminate the risk of hangover symptoms or other aftereffects.
To ease hangover symptoms, nutritionist Clifford Stefan advises against taking standard pain relievers. He explains that these medications can place additional stress on the liver, which has already been busy metabolizing alcohol. He also cautions against coffee, since caffeine can irritate the stomach lining and worsen dehydration. Instead, he recommends hydration with water that contains lemon juice and a small amount of sea salt, a combination that supports electrolyte restoration. Electrolytes help maintain the body’s water-salt balance and support smoother recovery, particularly after a night of heavy drinking. Drinking this electrolyte-enhanced water can be a straightforward step toward alleviating some common hangover symptoms such as thirst, dizziness, and fatigue.
The topic has featured researchers in the past who highlighted the beneficial properties of wine in moderation, suggesting that moderate consumption under certain conditions may have different physiological effects than binge drinking. This historical perspective underscores that the relationship between alcohol and health is nuanced and influenced by quantity, timing, and individual health status. In modern practice, the emphasis remains on mitigating harm after drinking, prioritizing hydration, balanced electrolytes, and gentle nourishment to support recovery. The recurring message is clear: hydration, rest, and prudent choices in what is consumed during and after drinking can shape how quickly one feels better.