For as long as we’ve consumed alcohol, we’ve had hangovers!! With the festive season well and truly on our doorstep, party time often means hangover time for many. So if you’ve overindulged, here is some advice on what you can do to help support your body through to 2015.

Hangover prevention and treatment

There are numerous folk remedies described as preventing, shortening and reducing the severity of hangover symptoms, but few treatments have had proper investigation. Clinical studies support the use of herbal medicine, in conjunction with nutrients, to assist healthy liver function. Supporting your liver on a regular basis is vital for those who regularly consume alcohol or those who are exposed to any sort of environmental toxins ie: hairdressers, miners, painters, mechanics, cleaners, etc.

So what causes a hangover?

• Dehydration
• Electrolyte imbalance
• Stomach upset
• Low blood sugar
• Sleep disturbance
• Toxic by-products of alcohol
• Alcohol withdrawal
• Lack of food
• Other drugs eg: nicotine

Minimising hangover effects

As well as the regular partygoers, those of you who usually only drink a small amount of alcohol, but anticipate a busy festive season, should include some liver support. This means taking supplements before and after social functions to help minimise any hangover effect.

Improving your liver function

Traditional herbs such as St. Mary’s thistle, Dandelion, Schizandra, Bupleurum, Globe artichoke and the nutrient curcumin:

• Aid regeneration of your liver cells
• Support and protect liver function
• Promote bile flow to help break down fats

Nutrients such as choline and inositol may help prevent fatty liver and reduce alcohol damage, whilst taurine supports bile flow and detoxification.

Fighting hangover fatigue

After a big night out, your head may be feeling a bit fuzzy, so it’s important to replenish your electrolytes and restore hydration. A comprehensive powdered magnesium supplement (including B vitamins and other nutrients) will be absorbed more rapidly than tablets and will:

• Support your nervous system
• Ease tension in your body
• Provide energy
• Assist with headache relief

Magnesium is required for over 300 processes in your body, but unfortunately most people are deficient. Including liver support supplements before and after an evening out, as well as throughout the holidays can also help to minimise hangovers.

Mr Vitamins recommends

Herbs of Gold nutritional supplements for Hangover Prevention and Treatment

1. Liver Care
2. Muscle Resuscitation

Find out more about right supplements for Hangover Prevention and Treatment here