Post #17179 by Trader Woody on Tue, Dec 24, 2002 3:27 AM

The reason mixing drinks causes a problem is that the body needs a little time to recognise the different ingredients, and then cope with what's being drunk.

What you actually drink does make a difference. The darker the drink, the more congeners in them, and congeners are one of the main causes of hangovers. Drink port/brandy/ and yes, dark rum all night and you are liable to wake up the next day feeling like a pig has shat in your head (Thank you 'Withnail & I'!). Drink vodka, gin, or white rum and the effects will be lessened considerably.

If you are on the beers, try sticking to the ones that meet the German purity laws, as they won't have any nasty chemicals in them . NB. This may be difficult in the US!

As for the actual hangover, yes, sleep is the best cure. Get up, drink some water, then go back to sleep again. When you finally arise, meet up with all your hungover pals for lunch. Seeing other people in the same boat somehow takes the edge off the hangover. Have everyone drink a bloody mary, then you'll all feel great again.

Trader Woody