Champagne, sparkling wine, cocktails, wine, beer ... when it comes to celebrating the old and ringing in the new, most would propose a toast. But New Year's Eve presents a slippery slope – to ensure that the consequences of excessive alcohol consumption are not too devastating, it is important to observe a few basic rules. It is particularly important to be proactive on the night of the party – any measures taken the next day can only limit the damage.
- Have a decent base
Don't drink on an empty stomach! Eat well and plenty on New Year's Eve, but neither too greasy nor too much. A good base is important, but can only delay the effects of alcohol and not prevent it.
- Hydrate
Drink as much (mineral) water as you can. The rule of thumb is: at least as much water as wine. You may need more time in the restroom, but the next day you'll be as fresh as a mountain stream.
- No plonk
Only drink high-quality beer, wine and spirits. Naturally, conscientious production and the use of the prime ingredients has an impact on physical well-being. When it comes to wines, opt for the top shelf – and don't skimp on cocktail ingredients either.
- No experiments
If you don't deviate from your usual drinking habits on New Year's Eve, you will retain better control. For instance, if you never drink champagne and then suddenly down it by the bottle, it will likely not end well. If you tend to switch it up, then feel free to do so at the turn of the year, otherwise you should stick to what you know.
- Before going to bed
If you're still upright when you get home, you've already won half the battle. However, if the room's spinning and you're slurring your words, further precautions can be helpful before crashing out. Aspirin is a real hangover killer and magnesium helps a lot. Both are easily available over the counter at your local drugstore.
- Hydrate some more
Drink plenty of water before going to bed; having to get up in the night is better than not getting out of bed at all next morning. Incidentally, points 5 and 6 are easily combined.
- Get lots of fresh air
Ventilate your bedroom thoroughly, get a good night's sleep – but don't stay in bed all day. Physical well-being increases with exercise and activity.
- The early bird ...
Treat yourself to a vitamin-rich breakfast with plenty of fluids. Freshly squeezed juices and mineral water are ideal. A "hair of the dog that bit you" only postpones the hangover, which will eventually hit you even stronger.
- Use supplementts
Special hangover- or magnesium drinks ensure a good start to the new year. Energy drinks or coffee only help in the short term, but for long-term wellbeing, you should rely on anabolic substances such as ginkgo, ginseng, zinc, magnesium, vitamins and fructose. Ask your local drugstore.
- Head outside
A walk or some exercise in the fresh air clears your head and provides the body with more oxygen. Residual alcohol is broken down faster through exercise.
