Drinking water doesn't cure hangover, new study reveals

The study also reinforced the point that there is no scientifically proven or commercially available treatment for hangovers.

The long-held belief that drinking water after a night of heavy alcohol consumption can ward off a hangover has been called into question by new research from Utrecht University, Netherlands. The study revealed that while staying hydrated may reduce feelings of thirst, it has minimal impact on core hangover symptoms such as headaches, nausea, and fatigue.

The researchers conducted a series of studies to investigate the relationship between dehydration and hangover severity. Participants were divided into two groups: those who drank water before going to bed after consuming alcohol and those who did not. Both groups reported similar levels of discomfort the next morning, experiencing headaches, nausea, and exhaustion regardless of hydration status. Although the hydrated group felt less thirsty, the severity of their hangovers remained comparable to those who did not drink water.

Lead author Dr Joris Verster explained, “The more you drink, the more likely you are to get a hangover. Drinking water may help against thirst and a dry mouth, but it will not take away the misery, the headache, and the nausea.” This highlights that dehydration, while a component of hangovers, is not the primary cause of their unpleasant symptoms.

The research further explored how alcohol-induced dehydration occurs. Alcohol consumption stimulates a hormonal response that leads to the loss of water and electrolytes, contributing to next-day thirst. However, the study found that this dehydration resolves relatively quickly compared to the more persistent effects of alcohol. Oxidative stress and inflammation, caused by the body’s response to metabolising alcohol, are believed to be the primary drivers behind the discomfort of hangovers. These processes trigger headaches, nausea, and fatigue, none of which can be alleviated by simply drinking water.

In addition to these findings, researchers observed that hangovers tend to worsen with age. Liver function, crucial for metabolising alcohol, declines over time, while the body's water content decreases. These factors result in a higher concentration of alcohol in the bloodstream, contributing to more severe hangovers in older individuals.

The study also reinforced the point that there is no scientifically proven or commercially available treatment for hangovers. For those seeking relief, the only effective method to avoid hangovers is to drink less alcohol or abstain altogether.