Somewhere around age 35, I noticed a pretty drastic change in how alcohol made me feel. I was no longer fine after a glass or two of wine, something Paul and I did most nights after work to wind down. I’d feel a headache almost instantly, bloated, and I’d never sleep well. Literally night and day to feeling nothing after one glass earlier in my life!
After talking with friends, I realized this is another perk of aging, and that the change is pretty common. I knew I needed to accept things, but I also wanted a game plan for drinking because I truly enjoy a buzz once in a while lol – just being honest!
First up, I cut out booze most weeknights. This is actually when I started coloring at night because I needed to replace wine as my main source of winding down. It’s actually been such a nice swap for me, and I highly recommend it if you’re trying to find something chill for evenings. I have all my art stuff here & I usually listen to an audiobook while coloring.
Next, I needed a game plan for when I have something fun planned, like a concert, trip, date night, whatever, and I’m craving a buzz, so I compiled a list of drinking non-negotiables, which I wanted to share below. TBH, this post seems almost silly to write because it’s pretty basic, but it sounds like a lot of us are in this same boat, and a few of these things have been game-changers. If you have any tricks I need to know about, DM me!
HOW I DEAL WITH HANGOVERS
The day of drinking (prep day)
+ Hydration and electrolytes: I’m dedicated to hydration all the time but when I know I’ll be drinking, I try to double my water intake that day. I also use 1-2 packs of LMNT electrolytes (raspberry salt is my favorite flavor) to prep.
+ Eat solid meals: Drinking and skipping a meal doesn’t mix, and I always regret the nights I’m having too much fun and don’t prioritize eating (like if we’re at a concert or something where you have to go out of your way to get food). It also usually leads to me getting too f*cked up too quickly, which again, not great. I’m trying to be more conscious of high-protein, carb-heavy meals on days I know I’ll be having a few drinks.
+ Liver pills: A non-negotiable for me! A little backstory on these…when I started feeling the effects of alcohol differently, I posted on IG and asked for non-alcoholic recommendations. I got a bunch of those, but the most helpful DM was from a friend who I’ve called my “doctor” my whole life. She told me about these liver pills and swore by them for hangovers. I bought them immediately and they def help! So much so that now all my friends ask me to bring the “hangover pills” whenever we’re drinking. Obviously nothing is going to cure endless tequila shots, and you should consult your doctor, but they work for me.
Here’s the guide I was given:
+ 1-2 drinks = 2 pills
+ 2-3 drinks = 3 pills
+ 4+ drinks = 4 pills (but good luck)
+ Take AFTER drinking. Otherwise, they’ll block your buzz. I take them once I get home with a huge glass of water.
+ Charcoal: Again, I’m not a doctor, and I’m still on the fence about charcoal pills, but I’ll do anything to avoid a hangover. I take 2 with my liver pills above if I think I’ll feel it the next day.
+ Limit the drinks: I rarely have more than a few drinks anymore but it’s fine. I get a buzz and feel OK the next day and that’s more important to me than being completely wild.
The next day (hangover day)
If I follow my guidelines above, I’m usually fine, other than tired. If I’m really struggling, here’s what I do:
+ More hydration: LMNT and water on repeat since alcohol is so dehydrating.
+ Cold water: Desperate times call for desperate measures. If I’m absolutely dying, I’ll take a cold shower or jump into the cold pool. Sucks but helps!
+ Anti-nausea pills: I take these whenever I’m in an Uber, plane, etc, because I get motion sick easily. I also pop a couple if I’m hungover.
+ Peppermint & ginger tea: Another anti-nausea aid if I’m desperate. I like this brand.
+ Carbs and naps: Ramen is usually my go-to! And a movie for the kids so I can sleep it off.