Biology of a Hangover

Rangoves The biology of a The price of a crazy and funny night 1) THE PROCESS When alcohol is consumed, the pituitary gland in the brain blocks the creation of vasopressin, which means the kidneys send the water straight to the bladder, instead of reabsorbing the water. MEN This can impact your body so greatly that you could expel four times as much liquid as you're taking in. The next morning, a dry mouth signals that the body's water supply needs to be replenished. Headaches are the result of the body trying to steal water from the brain, which causes a pull on the brain's membranes. Frequent urination also rids the body of necessary salts and potassium, which are needed for muscle and nerve function. Without them, hea- daches, exhaustion and nausea can Occur. Potassium and magnesium may also be expelled from the body, which are needed for cell function. COMMON SYMPTOMS Diarrhea Loss of appetite Trembling Nausea Fatigue Increased heart rate and blood pressure Anxiety Difficulty sleeping Weakness 3) ALCOHOL CONSUMERS IN PERCENTAGES 75% 75% of alcohol consumers have expe- rienced a hangover at least once. 25% 25% of college students feel the symptoms weekly. 15% 15% have one at least every month. 4) PREVENTION Eat a full meal Before bed Eating fatty foods and carbo- hydrates before eating slows the absorption of alcohol, which gives your body more time to process it. Also drink lots of water. Some suggest taking two aspirins and drinking a full glass of water before you head to bed. This will keep you hydrated and decrease the severity of the hangover. 5) REMEDIES There are a variety of home remedies for hangovers. Although several have proven to be effective the results may vary: Eggs Water Fruit juice Bananas Pain relievers Eggs contain cysteine, which helps break down hangover- causing toxins. The fructose in juice helps to increase the body's Adding salt and sugar to water helps replenish lost sodium energy, and helps get rid and glycogen. Bananas replenish lost potassium, as well as provides electrolytes. Go for something that is non-caffeinated and acetaminophen-free. of toxins faster. MEDICAL Information provided by: http://www.medicalinsurance.org/ umae Sources: health.howstuffworks.com/