Lifestyle

5 Hangover Myths Your Drunk Ass Should Finally Stop Falling For In 2016

by Nina Ruggiero

Whatever our ambitious resolutions for 2016 may be, the vast majority of us will be striving for one thing, and one thing only on the morning of January 1 – to find a cure for our miserable hangovers.

After an epic night spent ringing in the new year, dizzy with fresh hopes and dreams heightened by glittery dresses and flowing Champagne, there's no buzzkill like starting the first day of 2016 feeling like total sh*t.

So we called in Dr. Roshini Raj, gastroenterologist and health expert seen on the “TODAY Show,” “Good Day NY,” the “Dr. Oz Show” and more, for some much-needed help.

Look at that glow. Does she look like an amateur who lets nasty hangovers bring her down? Didn't think so.

Dr. Roshini Raj

Here are five hangover myths Raj says we need to stop falling for – and her tips on how to party smarter in the new year.

Myth #1: When it comes to hangovers, all alcohol is created equal.

Next time, hold the whiskey – and the soda.

Although any type of alcoholic drink can cause a hangover, some are worse than others. Choosing lighter alcohols (vodka vs. whiskey), skipping carbonated mixers, and having the drink on ice all help decrease your hangover risk. And pace yourself by drinking a glass of water for each drink you imbibe.

Myth #2: The best cure for a hangover is the hair of the dog (a morning drink).

Honey, no. Put down that mimosa and reach for the water (and some moisturizer, while you're at it).

While this may temporarily make you feel better, you are just postponing and probably worsening the inevitable. The best cure is sleep, water (or a electrolyte drink like Gatorade), and an OTC anti-inflammatory, like Motrin. Your skin will also be dehydrated -- so lather on a super rich face cream, crawl back into bed, and sleep it off.

Myth #3: A Tylenol before bed will prevent a hangover in the morning.

Lies. Bottles filled with lies.

Because both Tylenol and alcohol are metabolized by the liver, mixing them can lead to an accidental overdose of acetaminophen. Ibuprofen is a safer choice to decrease the headache-causing inflammation.

Myth #4: Eating right before bed can help absorb the alcohol and decrease hangover symptoms.

But, but... ugh. This one hits us where it hurts. Goodbye, beautiful 3 am pizza.

Sadly, the late night munchies do not help with hangovers. You need to eat BEFORE you drink to slow down absorption. A meal with protein, whole grains and healthy fat can help slow down the absorption of alcohol in your stomach.

Myth #5: The more you weigh, the more you can drink.

Ladies, listen up.

Although this is generally true, there are other factors involved. Even if they are the same weight, a woman will become intoxicated more quickly given the same amount of alcohol because they have a lower percentage of water in their bodies, and they have less of the enzyme alcohol dehydrogenase, which breaks down alcohol.

Don't be a sucker. It's time for a new, informed, migraine-free you.