AVOIDING A HANGOVER

There is nothing wrong with a drink every now and then but what is it that happens to our bodies when we consume too much alcohol?

Heavy drinking rocks the central nervous system. It tinkers with brain chemicals -- leading to headache, dizziness, and nausea -- and sends you running to the bathroom so often you become dehydrated. The morning-after price can include a pounding headache, fatigue, cotton mouth, queasy stomach -- and a weakened immune system.

If you're worried about how you'll feel in the morning, the gentlest choices are beer and clear liquors, such as vodka and gin.

Don’t take acetaminophen (Tylenol) after a night of drinking. The combination could hurt your liver.

A lot of coffee leads to more dehydration and could make your hangover worse. After a night of drunkenness, it's best to avoid anything with caffeine. Instead, sip water and sports drinks to counter dehydration and replace lost electrolytes -- especially if you threw up.

British researchers reviewed the studies on hangover pills, such as yeast and artichoke extract. They found no compelling evidence that they worked. Another British team found a supplement made from prickly pear cactus may reduce nausea and dry mouth from hangovers, but not the dreaded headache. The only proven cure? Time.

So too help alleviate some of these symptoms try alternating water with your alcoholic drinks.  Also eat, snack on whatever you can before and during the consumsption of alcohol.  Eating a lot of food just as you go to bed after you've been drinking is not recommended.


If you're undergoing cancer treatment therapy then consult your oncologist in regards to alcohol consumption.  Alcohol can irritate / effect your mouth and throat.  Alcohol could also inhibit nutrients in the blood from working.

We know alcohol consumption is related to the increased risk of breast cancer in women, increased risk of oral, esophageal, and liver cancer in both men and women.

Moderation and common sense is the key when it comes to consuming alcohol.  Always drink water throughout the day whether you're having alcohol or not.

In the American Cancer Society's new lifestyle guidelines for cancer survivors, maintaining a healthy weight is at the top of the list. The cancer society recommends 30 minutes of exercise a day, at least five days a week and eating a diet that includes a lot of fruits and vegetables, whole grains and lean meat.

Chris Irwin