The dreaded hangover, the pounding headache, the nausea, and the fatigue are a miserable combination that can leave even the most seasoned partygoer feeling wretched. Nevertheless, amidst the suffering, there is often a singular craving that shines through with sweet and cold drinks, the reason why people with hangovers invariably reach out for sugary and chilled beverages.
Some popular sweet and cold drinks people turn to when hungover include soda, juice, sports drinks, smoothies, iced tea, or coffee.
According to Dr. Nelson Byamukama, when a person drinks alcohol, the body burns through its stored glucose (sugar) to metabolize the ethanol. This depletes the energy reserves, leaving one feeling drained and lethargic. Sweet drinks offer a quick fix, replenishing those energy stores and providing a temporary “pick-me-up.”
Alcohol is a diuretic, causing one’s body to lose vital fluids and electrolytes. Cold and sweet drinks help rehydrate the body, replenishing lost fluids and electrolytes. The sugar and water in these beverages help rebalance your body’s delicate fluid balance.
Hangovers often come with nausea and stomach discomfort. Sweet, cold drinks help calm the stomach, providing relief from these unpleasant symptoms. The cold temperature helps numb the stomach lining, reducing inflammation and alleviating nausea.
Dr. Dorcus Akullo said that consuming sweet tastes triggers the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. This can provide a temporary mood boost, helping alleviate the hangover blues.
While sweet and cold drinks do not cure a hangover, they provide temporary relief and comfort. By replenishing energy stores, rehydrating the body, soothing the stomach, and releasing dopamine, these beverages offer a much-needed respite from the misery of a hangover.