Electrolytes! Everybody wants more electrolytes, even though we don’t know what they do or where to find them.
The good news is that electrolytes can help with a hangover (among other things) and are really easy to find, because they’re everywhere. Specifically, it’s the primary ions of electrolytes that are what’s important, and they include:
- Sodium
- Potassium
- Magnesium
- Calcium
- Chloride
- Hydrogen phosphate
- Hydrogen carbonate
Why are these electrolyte ions important, at least when it comes to hangovers? Basically, it’s because keeping them in balance in the body will allow it to effectively regulate hydration. And, since dehydration is one of the primary contributors to a hangover, it stands to reason that electrolytes play a key role in the game of Dodge the Headache.
Finding electrolytes is as easy as putting a vaguely healthy food item in your mouth. Actually, for some of these it doesn’t even have to be healthy, but it may as well be. If you have a banana with a glass of milk as part of your hangover breakfast you’ll already be halfway home.
Of course, maintenance is as important as replenishment when it comes to electrolytes. Hydration regulation is as important before you drink as it while you’re drinking or after you’ve finished, so eating right day and night is the best way to keep your electrolytes in check.
Legal Stuff: We should remind everyone that our blog entries are for your information only and are not intended as medical advice. If you’re going to drink, do it legally and responsibly; don’t be stupid =).
