Waking up on January 1st feeling fresh and energetic can seem like a distant fantasy when you're grappling with the throbbing aftermath of a night of celebration.
The Expert's Go-To Morning Fix
Fortunately, there are proven strategies to soften the brutal edge of a hangover, helping you gather the strength to face the day and all those cheerful New Year messages. Wellbeing, fitness, and nutrition expert Penny Weston has disclosed her favourite remedy, championing a simple, inexpensive solution packed with health benefits to launch your year positively.
Speaking to the Mirror, Penny recommended that weary revellers start their morning with a generous serving of coconut water. This tropical drink offers at least a mental escape to sun-drenched shores, a welcome contrast to a gloomy British morning spent in a dressing gown.
Why Coconut Water Works
Penny explained the science behind the suggestion: "Coconut water is said to have many health benefits. It is known for its high concentrations of electrolytes, fibre, vitamins and minerals, such as potassium and magnesium." She highlighted its roles in aiding kidney stones, boosting metabolism, enhancing hydration, and supporting the immune system.
"The reasons we feel terrible with a hangover are sleep deprivation, alcohol poisoning and dehydration," Penny stated. "Coconut water can certainly help with rehydration as it is naturally isotonic and is absorbed quickly to help you rehydrate faster. Potassium helps keep fluid and electrolyte balance in the body."
She also proposed a proactive tip: "You could also try adding some coconut water to your alcoholic beverages during the night instead of using tonic or soda water, which may help lessen the hangover the next day."
How to Make Your Own or Buy It Cheaply
While blending a DIY remedy might feel daunting when you're barely able to scroll through last night's photos, Penny insists the process is straightforward. "It is quite simple to make your own coconut water. The hardest part is actually finding a natural coconut and opening it!" she said.
Her method involves perforating the coconut, pouring the water into a glass, then opening it fully to extract the meat. "Cut the coconut meat into approximately two-inch pieces and fill about half a cup. Then blend the coconut meat and add the coconut water. You can also add some filtered water too. If you want to flavour it more, add some sugar and a pinch of cinnamon to your own taste."
For those not keen on wrestling with a whole coconut first thing in the morning, ready-made options are cheap and accessible. You can purchase a whole coconut for around £1 at Asda, or for a more convenient solution, a can of coconut water costs roughly £1 from Morrisons.
Alternative Remedies and What to Avoid
If coconut isn't to your taste, other remedies exist. Superintendent pharmacist Abbas Kanani, MRPharmS, suggested a fatty fish sandwich can help reduce inflammation caused by alcohol consumption.
However, he warned against a classic morning pick-me-up: "Coffee is a diuretic and can dehydrate you even further, intensifying headaches and making you urinate more so that you lose electrolytes." He advised that water, fresh juice, and coconut water are superior choices for rehydration, electrolyte replacement, and energy restoration.
