Going out to drink? Eat these 15 foods to beat the adverse effects of alcohol

12/06/2019 / By Grace Olson

Going out for a fun night with friends often come with one too many drinks. As the night wears on, you may lose track of how many glasses or bottles you’ve had. This makes you more susceptible to problems like a nasty hangover or even alcohol poisoning.

You can avoid these adverse events by developing one good habit: eating first before drinking.

Don’t drink on an empty stomach

People often report that alcohol helps them relax, but it affects people in different ways. Unlike other foods and beverages, alcohol cannot be stored anywhere in the body. Therefore, the body makes it a priority to metabolize alcohol first.

If a person drinks on an empty stomach, the alcohol immediately goes to the small intestine, where it is readily absorbed. The rate of absorption varies for each person and depends on body size and liver health. Without food, there is no buffer to help keep the alcohol in the stomach where it can be broken down and properly processed. This largely affects a person’s cognitive abilities and coordination. Due to the intensified side effects, a person becomes more prone to accidents that can lead to serious injuries or even death.

Foods to eat before getting a drink

Drinking lightly on an empty stomach may not result in bad side effects, but it is still best to grab a bite before consuming alcohol. The following foods will fill the stomach and help prevent unwanted outcomes:

Asparagus – To prepare the liver for the night, eat a lot of asparagus. This beneficial plant produces antioxidants that can help boost liver health.
Avocado – It is made of healthy, monounsaturated fats that take longer than proteins and carbs to digest. This slows down the rate of alcohol absorption in the small intestine.
Bananas – They are rich sources of potassium, which can prevent electrolyte imbalance caused by alcohol intake. Eat at least one banana before going out to drink.
Beets – They are rich in antioxidants and protects the liver from damage.
Berries – All kinds of berries, like strawberries and blueberries, are rich in nutrients and antioxidants. Moreover, they are filled with water and can help a person stay hydrated.
Chia pudding – This snack is filled with fiber and protein. Protein, in particular, can help slow down the absorption of alcohol into the bloodstream.
Eggs – These protein-packed food can help a person feel full for a longer time. Eating eggs can help reduce cravings that usually increase when people drink.
Grapefruit – The juice of this citrus fruit helps boost the levels of several enzymes that improve liver function and detoxification.
Hummus – It is a great alternative source of protein for vegetarians. It also contains fats, proteins and carbohydrates that can help you feel full.
Melon – This large fruit is filled with water and potassium. Cut some honeydew or cantaloupe for a refreshing snack to fend off the side effects of alcohol.
Oats – Packed with fiber and protein, oats can be prepared in numerous ways, including baked goods, smoothies and granola bars for a quick snack.
Quinoa – This whole grain superfood is rich in potassium and magnesium that can reduce imbalances in electrolyte levels.
Salmon – This fresh fish is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which reduce brain inflammation associated with excessive alcohol drinking.
Sweet potatoes – Aside from potassium, sweet potatoes are made of complex carbs that take longer to break down. They reduce the effects of spikes and crashes in blood sugar levels as a person drinks.
Trail mix – It has a healthy combination of different nuts like almonds, walnuts and flaxseeds – all of which are rich in fiber and protein. Take this portable nutrient-packed snack for the night.