Holiday Hangover Remedies

'Tis The Season for Hangovers

Most of us would take anything to temper the symptoms: pounding headache, fatigue, churning nausea and dry mouth. Before you even think about partying like Britney, take our sober advice.

Drink by Rhyme

Sing along: "Beer before liquor/Never been sicker./Liquor before beer/You're in the clear." Also, many people swear that mixing drinks intensifies a hangover and darker drinks such as red wine and rum, makes for a worse morning after than light or clear drinks.

I Can't Believe I Drank the Whole Thing

Aspirin is supposed to be a magic potion for pain relief. So it seems sensible, even necessary, to use it to ease your throbbing head. Alcohol, however, is a stomach irritatant, just like aspirin and acetaminophen. Mixing is not a good idea. Stick with antacids to help with indigestion.

Feeling Pickled?

Salt is one of the minerals your body is thirsting for after a heavy night. In Eastern Europe and Russia, pickle juice is a common hangover antidote. Try it, if you like, but it's just as effective to boil up some soup stock or sprinkle some salt in a tall glass of water.

Hot-Blooded

One relaxing cure is to head to the sauna. Many people believe it allows you to sweat all the toxins out. Perhaps, but don't forget you're already dehydrated. Drink plenty of water (more on that later). Also, alcohol-related accidents including sprains and burns are common in saunas. Don't go in drunk; wait until the next day, please.

Tea-totaler

Alternative remedies such as kudzu extract and milk thistle are taking root. In Asia, the preference is tea, particularly ginger and green tea. While these tonics are believed to detoxify the system, soothe the stomach and relax jittery nerves, keep in mind that there's no rigorous research behind them.

Breakfast of Champions

Many foods can help you feel better, but some swear by the fry-up -- eggs (they contain cysteine, which mops up the toxins produced by booze) and bacon, or maybe a burger and fries. Too harsh? Go for a light breakfast of bananas (loaded with potassium), honey (contains sodium, potassium and fructose) and whole wheat toast.

Rise and Shine

Getting out of bed doesn't sound like fun -- or even manageable -- but it'll be well worth it. Go for a light jog or stroll around the block. Your metabolic system will thank you for the fresh air and increased oxygen.

Just Say No

Consider non-alcoholic drinks for at least part of the evening before you pop the cork. You don't have to nurse a club soda all night. There are many sophisticated sober cocktails, as well as tasty non-alcoholic beers and sparkling ciders that mimic the real thing. You can still have fun.

Bottom's Up

The more mojitos you drink, the more dehydrated you'll get. Solution? Chug a lot of water. Before, during and after your big night out. Ginger ale, sports drinks and fruit juices are also good; just avoid coffee. Not only will the caffeine further dehydrate you, but your already tender tummy won't like it.