Alcohol often appears in our daily lives, sometimes as a part of celebrations and sometimes as a way to relieve stress. However, the hangover the next day can be a significant burden for many people. There are many ways to reduce hangovers, but today we introduce a new method suggested by Dr. Rhonda Patrick, a British food nutritionist. It is the surprising fact that eating fruit before drinking can reduce hangovers by up to 45%. Let’s dive into the details.
The Role of Fructose in Reducing Hangovers
Dr. Patrick explains that fructose in fruit accelerates the removal of alcohol from the body. If you consume fruits like grapes, watermelon, or bananas before drinking, the blood alcohol content decreases, resulting in a less severe hangover the next day. These fruits help hydrate the body, replenish vitamins and minerals, and restore electrolytes.
Recommended Intake Based on Body Weight
While eating fruit before drinking is beneficial for hangovers, a significant amount of fruit is needed to see the effects. For a person weighing 79kg, it is recommended to eat about 5-6 apples to experience the benefits. This amount might be burdensome for many, but consuming enough fruit is crucial to feel its hangover-reducing effects.
Is Fruit Juice Effective?
Dr. Patrick warns that fruit juice may not be as effective in reducing hangovers. When fruit is turned into juice, the sugar is released and easily absorbed into the bloodstream, causing a rapid spike in blood sugar levels, which then drops quickly. Therefore, it’s best to consume the fruit whole.
Be Cautious of High Sugar Content in Fruit-Infused Alcoholic Beverages
In Korea, fruit-infused soju, which contains fruit concentrates, is very popular. However, it’s important to be aware that one bottle of fruit soju can contain over 30g of sugar. Considering that the recommended daily sugar intake is 50g, just two bottles of fruit soju can exceed this limit. Therefore, it’s advisable to enjoy fruit soju in moderation and avoid excessive consumption.
Conclusion: Healthy Drinking with Fruit Consumption
While fruit cannot completely eliminate hangovers, it can help mitigate the negative effects of alcohol to some extent. Incorporating the small habit of eating fruit before drinking can reduce your hangover the next day. Try incorporating fruit into your pre-drinking routine for healthier drinking habits.