Consuming too much alcohol can have adverse effects on the human body regardless of size and age. These effects come in the form of a hangover which is described as a group of unpleasant physiological and psychological signs and symptoms resulting from excessive alcohol consumption.
Hangover, although not only due to theexcessive alcohol consumption with some very unpleasant symptoms such as headache, drowsiness, difficulty concentrating, dry mouth, dizziness, fatigue, gastrointestinal discomfort, lack of hunger, profuse sweating, red eyes, shakiness, depression, increased body temperature, excitability and fear.
Symptoms of a hangover are said to occur after the intoxicating effect of alcohol wears off. They are usually fully effective in the morning after a night of heavy drinking and usually occur when blood alcohol levels drop significantly to or near zero. This experience can last up to 24 hours (per day) depending on the amount of alcohol consumed and the severity of the hangover.
There are also cases of more severe signs and symptoms associated with heavy drinking that can last for more than a day. This can be a case of alcohol poisoning and people affected are advised to seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms may include confusion, vomiting, seizures, slow or irregular breathing, skin turning blue or pale, hypothermia and loss of consciousness.
At such times one sees people confusing several customs that are usually ineffective to alleviate the discomfort felt. Some even go as far as drinking more alcohol, the “hair of the dog that bites you” – a slang term used predominantly for consuming alcohol to stop or lessen the effects of a hangover.
Celery, scientifically known as Apium graveolens , is a vegetable in the plant family Apiaceae. Celery’s benefits start with being an excellent source of antioxidants and beneficial enzymes. In addition to vitamins and minerals such as vitamin K, C, B6, potassium and folic acid.
After the early discovery of the Romans, celery stalks served as a good hangover remedy. Celery is packed with folic acid, calcium, potassium, and vitamins that help regulate body fluids, stimulate urine production, and eliminate toxins from the system. It also contains alkaline substances that calm the nervous system, thus promoting relaxation and the quality of sleep.
Here’s a green juice recipe made with celery that can cure your late-night binges.
Ingredients:
- 4 sticks of celery
- 1 green apple
- 4 kale leaves
- 2 sprigs of parsley
- 1 inch piece of ginger
- 2 carrots
Procedure:
- Wash all ingredients carefully and place in a juice blender.
- Pour in a clean glass of water and blend until smooth.
- Pour the mixed contents into a glass and sip at your own pace.
Hangovers are not a serious health problem, but their causes are still poorly understood. Several factors are now known to be associated with hangovers, including acetaldehyde accumulation, changes in the immune system, glucose metabolism, dehydration, metabolic acidosis, impaired prostaglandin synthesis, increased cardiac output, vasodilation, sleep deprivation, malnutrition, beverage-specific effects of additives or by-products, such as congeners, among others.
It is still recommended to avoid too much alcohol consumption by not drinking at all or moderate alcohol consumption according to doctors. OK, if you know each other well and can’t help but have a blast, keep that celery juice handy. Aside from giving up alcohol altogether, you can alleviate your subsequent symptoms simply by drinking a cup of this juice and then getting a good rest.
You can also try turning it off if you can’t do the above blending or if all the required ingredients aren’t readily available. You will eventually feel better. Other remedies include eating before and during drinking, drinking some water between drinks, and knowing your limits. Also, choose carefully the type of alcohol consumed. Finally, take it slow.