8 Things That Really Stop Hangovers

All these remedies have at least some scientific backing.

1. Asparagus

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According to a new study, asparagus contains compounds that reverse the negative effects of alcohol on human cells. Unfortunately asparagus leaves are more potent in this regard than the commonly-eaten shoots, meaning an extract might be more useful than just eating a lot of the vegetable (although a tasty-sounding recipe for the dish above is here).

2. Caffeine

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In 2011, researchers did some terrible-sounding things to rat brains and determined that the culprit behind hangover headaches is a chemical called adenosine. The best antidote: caffeine. Of course, caffeine also serves the secondary purpose of waking up after a late night out on the town (not applicable to rats).

3. Advil

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The same study showed that an anti-inflammatory similar to ibuprofen (the active ingredient in Advil) had a similar hangover-reducing effect. Popping Advil when you have a hangover headache is kind of a no-brainer — but now there's science to back you up. Be warned, though — habitual heavy drinking and Advil use can be bad for your stomach lining.

4. Cactus

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Yes, extract from the prickly pear cactus can apparently prevent hangover-related nausea and dry mouth, according to a 2004 study. However, you have to take it before you drink. The prickly pear margarita may be a partial solution.

5. Bacon sandwich

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For reals. Bacon apparently contains amino acids that help heal your alcohol-depleted brain.

6. Orange juice

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Some research [PDF] indicates that vitamin C accelerates alcohol metabolism, so a glass of orange juice (or some Emergen-C) might make you feel better. At the very least, it will make you feel like you're doing something good for your body, and reduce hangover guilt.

7. Eggs

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Research shows that cysteine, a compound in eggs, can help counteract aldehyde, one of the chemicals that builds up in your body when you drink too much. And if you're eating eggs, you might as well cover them in hollandaise, right?

8. Hummus

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In one study, drinkers who took pyritinol, a form of vitamin B6, during a party were less hungover the next day than those who didn't take the vitamin. Chickpeas are an excellent source of B6, so snack on hummus while drinking to protect yourself from hangovers in advance. B1 may also have a protective effect, and it's found abundantly in...asparagus.