Sunday, June 23, 2013

How to Avoid a Hangover

Some studies show that moderate alcohol consumption is beneficial for long-term health.  In fact, moderate drinking, defined as one to three drinks per day, is associated with the lowest mortality rates in alcohol studies.  This gives us all another reason to have an occasional drink (or 2) and enjoy the social life.  With that in mind, here are some simple ways to minimize any possible negative effects of alcohol consumption:

Step 1: Choose a clean alcohol with the least toxins.  Selecting a drink wisely will have the added bonus of causing less of a hangover.  Here the alcoholic beverages are, in order from best (cleanest) to worst (most toxins):
=> potato vodka (least toxic), grain vodka, gin, tequila, whiskey, other distilled spirits, champagne, dry white wine, white wines, red wines, dessert wines, beer (most toxic).

Step 2: Block the conversion of alcohol into aldehyde.  Aldehyde is the most potent hangover-causing metabolite that may also increase the signs of aging (especially in the skin).  To block this toxin, take one Vitamin C capsule (250 mg), along with N-Acetyl Cysteine before each drink.

Step 3: If you want even more protection, add Vitamin B1 and Alpha-Lipoic Acid before each drink.  Or, you can take this nutrient combo before your first and after your last drink.  For a final protective addition you can supplement lipoceutical glutathione.  This supplement is expensive, but very useful as it is the most powerful liver detoxifier available.

Step 4: Absorb any toxins with a binding agent.  To do this, take 4 capsules of Activated Charcoal after you’re done drinking.  If you chose beer or wine, you may want to take 1 capsule with each drink.  Activated charcoal works like a sponge to bind away toxins, including aldehyde, so you don't absorb them into the blood stream.

So enjoy the summer, drink in moderation, and have good tomorrow.  Cheers!