A practical approach to minimizing the aftereffects of a festive night is to keep well hydrated, eat nourishing foods, and pace alcohol consumption. This guidance aligns with the observations shared by Olga Shashkova, a general practitioner and cardiologist affiliated with LabQuest and Q-Clinic, who emphasized a balanced mindset toward celebrations that won’t derail the following day’s well-being.
Shashkova explains that a hangover is not a single symptom but a collection of effects caused by ethanol interacting with the body. She notes that the mix of substances known as congeners, which contribute to the distinctive taste and aroma of many drinks, also plays a significant role in how intensely a person experiences hangover symptoms. The congeners are more than just flavor contributors; they influence the duration and severity of discomfort after drinking.
According to the doctor, consuming larger amounts of congeners tends to intensify the hangover. Among commonly consumed beverages, vodka, light beer, and white wine typically contain fewer congeners, while red wine, aged rums, brandy, tequila, whiskey, and cognac are often richer in these compounds. This variance helps explain why some drinks seem to lead to tougher mornings than others, even when the total amount of alcohol is similar.
Shashkova highlights that the main drivers of a hangover are the quantity and rate of alcohol intake. She stresses that when ethanol intake is excessive, the body’s response is overwhelmed regardless of the drink’s source. Additionally, she challenges the common myth that one cannot mitigate the degree of intoxication just by choosing a different beverage, underscoring that intentional moderation and mindful pacing can lessen the aftereffects while still allowing people to enjoy the occasion.
She also advises avoiding the mixture of alcohol with carbonated beverages, as the carbonation can accelerate ethanol absorption, leading to a quicker rise in blood alcohol concentration. The advice is practical: sip at a steady pace, pair drinks with substantial food, and drink plenty of water to support hydration and slow the drinking process. Everyone’s tolerance and “middle”—the point at which consumption feels comfortable—will vary, and that personal threshold often becomes clearer through experience and steady practice.
In addition to how much is consumed, Shashkova notes the importance of the quality of alcohol. Some premium options may taste smoother, which can indirectly encourage slower drinking, a useful effect for reducing peak blood alcohol levels. The emphasis on quality, rather than merely quantity, can influence not just how quickly one finishes a drink but also how the body processes ethanol over time.
Earlier, Anastasia Chizhikova, a former endoscopist, gastroenterologist, and nutritionist at SM-Clinic, added her perspective on hydration. She recommends emphasizing fluid intake to help alleviate hangover symptoms, arguing that rehydration supports the body’s recovery processes after a night of festivities. Her practical guidance complements the medical view by focusing on the body’s need to replenish fluids and maintain electrolyte balance as part of post-party recovery. She also underscores the broader health considerations that come with alcohol consumption, reminding readers that staying hydrated is not just about feeling better the next day but about supporting overall well-being during celebrations.
Ultimately, the consensus among medical professionals highlighted here is clear: responsible enjoyment is possible with mindful planning. By focusing on hydration, solid meals, moderate pacing, and choosing beverages with an awareness of congeners, people in Canada and the United States can celebrate with confidence while reducing the risk of a painful morning after. The core message remains simple: listen to your body, respect your limits, and make choices that align with long-term health goals rather than short-term indulgence.