Finding ways to cure a hangover is as old as alcohol itself. Numerous methods and concoctions are sold, but scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness is lacking.

Recently, the theory that taking a spoonful of olive oil before consuming alcohol can prevent a hangover has gained attention. This idea, popularized by public figures like music producer Benny Blanco who spoke about it on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, claims that olive oil can coat the stomach and slow down alcohol absorption, thus reducing hangover symptoms.

However, this claim is not supported by scientific evidence and should be viewed with great caution. The theory behind the olive oil trick is based on the idea that the high fat content in the oil creates a layer on the stomach lining, slowing the rate at which alcohol is absorbed into the bloodstream. This slower absorption is supposed to reduce the intensity of the hangover.

Although it is known that fatty foods can somewhat slow down alcohol absorption, the effectiveness of this method is questionable. The main part of alcohol absorption occurs in the small intestine, while only about 20% is absorbed in the stomach. Therefore, even if olive oil slows initial absorption in the stomach, most of the alcohol will still be absorbed later in the digestive process.

Moreover, hangover symptoms like dehydration, headaches, and nausea are primarily the result of alcohol metabolism in the body, which involves the chemical change of alcohol by enzymes in the liver. Olive oil does not affect this metabolic process in a way that could alter hangover outcomes.

A comprehensive approach to hangover prevention includes several factors, such as hydration, proper nutrition, and moderation in alcohol consumption. While olive oil may slightly slow alcohol absorption, it is not a comprehensive solution.

Alternative Methods
Instead of relying on olive oil, there are several well-known methods for preventing or alleviating hangovers:

Hydration: Dehydration is one of the main causes of hangover symptoms. Drinking water before, during, and after alcohol consumption can help maintain hydration levels and reduce the severity of the hangover. Maintaining hydration can also help flush toxins from the body, which can reduce the intensity of the hangover.

Nutrition: Eating a nutritious meal before drinking can more effectively slow alcohol absorption than a spoonful of olive oil. Foods rich in proteins, fats, and complex carbohydrates can provide a more balanced approach to mitigating the effects of alcohol. Proteins and fats can help slow alcohol absorption, while complex carbohydrates can help maintain blood sugar levels.

Moderation: The best way to prevent a hangover is to drink in moderation. Setting limits and controlling alcohol intake can significantly reduce the risk of a hangover. Drinking slowly and taking breaks between drinks can also help reduce the total amount of alcohol consumed.

Nutrient Replenishment: After drinking, consuming foods and beverages that replenish lost electrolytes and provide essential nutrients can help the body recover. This includes options like sports drinks, fruits, and vegetables. Fruits and vegetables are rich in vitamins and minerals that can help replenish nutrients lost during alcohol consumption.

It is important to note that some people claim that the olive oil method helps them. However, these anecdotal reports are often influenced by the placebo effect. Belief in the effectiveness of a remedy can sometimes lead to perceived improvements, even if the remedy itself is not scientifically proven to be effective.

Additional Scientific Studies on Hangover Causes and Prevention

Scientific research on hangovers has shown that dehydration is a key factor in the development of hangover symptoms. Alcohol acts as a diuretic, which means it increases urine production and causes fluid loss in the body. This fluid loss can lead to dehydration, which can cause headaches, fatigue, and dry mouth. Drinking water can help reduce these symptoms by maintaining hydration levels.

In addition to dehydration, hangovers are also associated with the body's inflammatory response to alcohol consumption. Alcohol can cause inflammation of the stomach and intestinal lining, which can lead to nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen, can help reduce these symptoms, but they should be used with caution due to potential side effects.

One way to reduce the risk of a hangover is to consume alcohol with a low congener content. Congeners are byproducts of alcohol fermentation that can contribute to the severity of a hangover. Darker drinks, such as red wine, whiskey, and rum, typically contain more congeners than lighter drinks, such as vodka, white wine, and gin. Choosing drinks with lower congener content can help reduce hangover symptoms.

There are also several dietary supplements being researched as possible solutions for hangover prevention. For example, research has shown that willow bark extract may have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce hangover symptoms. Additionally, supplements containing vitamins B and C may help replenish nutrients lost during alcohol consumption.

While the idea of taking a spoonful of olive oil before consuming alcohol as a hangover prevention method is an appealingly simple solution, it lacks solid scientific support. It is better to rely on methods that are proven to be effective, such as hydration, proper nutrition, and moderation in alcohol consumption. If you do decide to try this method, keep in mind that its effectiveness can vary from person to person and it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional before trying new hangover prevention methods.

Original:
Justin Stebbing
Professor of Biomedical Sciences at Anglia Ruskin University