Exercise before night out could be key to alleviating severity of a hangover

The festive season is synonymous with celebration, indulgence, and for many, the dreaded morning-after hangover. But what if the secret to reducing hangover severity lies in your pre-drinking routine? New research published in the journal Addictive Behaviors suggests that regular vigorous exercise could alleviate hangovers and even lower the likelihood of experiencing them.
The study in focus
The study examined 1,676 undergraduate students who reported having at least one hangover in the past three months. All participants engaged in at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity weekly. Researchers assessed their alcohol consumption, physical activity levels, and the frequency and severity of hangover symptoms via online questionnaires.
Interestingly, the study revealed a strong connection between physical activity and reduced hangover symptoms. Individuals who consumed more alcohol naturally experienced more frequent and severe hangovers. However, participants who regularly performed vigorous exercises, such as running, reported milder hangovers or avoided them altogether.
Why exercise matters
Regular exercise appears to enhance the body’s resilience to the effects of alcohol. Vigorous physical activity helps in several ways:
• Improved sleep quality: Exercise promotes better sleep, aiding recovery and reducing fatigue associated with hangovers.
• Endorphin boost: The release of endorphins during exercise can help ease hangover discomfort, including headaches and muscle soreness.
• Reduced inflammation: Alcohol triggers inflammatory responses, intensifying hangover symptoms. Exercise stimulates anti-inflammatory cytokines, which counteract this effect.
Although the study participants were required to engage in just 30 minutes of exercise weekly, the research didn’t specify how soon before drinking exercise should be performed to maximize its benefits.
Limitations and practical takeaways
It’s worth noting that the study focused on young adults aged 18-22, which may not fully represent older demographics. Nonetheless, the findings highlight the importance of an active lifestyle in mitigating hangovers.
Ultimately, while moderation remains the most reliable way to avoid a hangover, incorporating regular exercise into your routine could be a game-changer for managing post-drinking recovery. As the holiday season approaches, it’s worth keeping this study in mind—because your morning-after self will thank you.