This is the ultimate anti-hangover trick
A hangover is, let's face it, a kind of penance for a too-enjoyable evening. Whether it was six glasses of wine, a few cocktails or a “we'll do one more poma for the atmosphere” (spoiler: that's never just one), you just know: I'm going to feel this tomorrow. And yet we keep doing it. Because yes, wine is fine, and parties are just too much fun.
But good news: so there is something you can do. And no, it's not a juice cure, an expensive detox or magic smoothie. It's a very basic, un-sexy powder that should be in your kitchen cupboard: ORS.
What is ORS anyway?
ORS stands for Oral Rehydration Solution. Sounds medical, it is a bit, but most importantly: it works. ORS is a mix of salts and sugars that helps you absorb fluids better. Originally designed to prevent dehydration in diarrhoea (romantic, right?), but secretly so brilliant against that other form of dehydration: your hangover.
Because that's a hangover at its core: your body is dehydrated. Alcohol draws all the moisture out of your body. Hence, you wake up with a dry tongue, a pounding head and skin that feels like parchment. And then you have to go to brunch. Long live life.
How to use ORS against a hangover?
Very simple: when you get home at night - no matter how late it is - dissolve one sachet of ORS in a big glass of water. Drink that before you plop your face down on your pillow. And for the really smart partygoer: prepare a second glass in advance for the morning after.
Most ORS sachets taste like something neutral or fruity (citrus, raspberry, orange), so you don't have to fear a medicine taste. And the nice thing is: your body literally soaks it up. You may not suddenly feel fresh as a spring morning, but at least you won't be a dehydrated zombie.
Why does it work better than water alone?
Water is good, always. But water + electrolytes = much better. ORS ensures you replenish not only fluids, but also the minerals you have lost. Think sodium, potassium and glucose - all important for your fluid balance and energy levels. So instead of guzzling litres of water and still staying in bed, one glass of ORS will do exactly what your body needs.
And if you want to do it all right...
- Drink water between your drinks
We all know it, we (almost) never do it. Yet: between each glass of wine, one glass of water is your best investment of the evening, also known as zebra-striking - ORS before sleeping
Really, even if you have to wipe off half your make-up next to it: drink that glass. - ORS in the morning
Double dose of hydration. Your brain (and skin) will thank you. - Eat something salty
A broth or miso soup is your best brunch friend the morning after. - Skip the coffee (yes really)
Caffeine dehydrates you even more. If you really must, have at least one extra glass of water with it.
Bonus points for summer
ORS is your lifesaver if your summer consists of one long line of patio dates, barbecues, get-togethers, beach parties (these are the best beach bars near you) and balmy summer evenings that always last just a little longer than you intended. Just throw a few bags in your weekend bag, in your beach bag or in the glove compartment of your car - you never know. Especially if, after an afternoon of wine on the terrace, you suddenly find yourself at a garden party where they are just barely showering you with prosecco. Trust me: on days like that, you want to have that powder to hand.
So: the magic anti-hangover drink exists. It is ORS.
Not hip, not expensive, no influencer hype. But definitely the difference between “I won't do anything today except sweat and regret” and “I'm just human enough to make it to brunch”. Cheers. And you're welcome.
Image: @peggy.gou
