Hangover 'cures' that don't work

Hangovers cost the United States over $148 billion each year due to people missing work or doing poorly when working through the day-after haze. Many claim to know the sure-fire tricks for dodging a hangover, but some remedies are pure fiction.

First, we all want to skip that morning-after feeling, but some of the most popular advice could be nothing but a myth. What about the mantra ‘liquor before beer, nothing to fear?' False! It doesn't matter what order the drinks are in. The more drinks, the higher the likelihood of a hangover.

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Another myth: coffee will ease hangover symptoms. The caffeine may give you a burst of energy, but once the rush is over you could be left with an even worse headache.

You also can't beat a headache by taking pain relievers the night before.

Some swear by a greasy breakfast the morning after a late night. This is somewhat true! Eating calories the next day is important, but beware, it could cause heartburn.

If you have nausea, you may get some relief by taking an antacid, but experts warn you should read the labels before taking anything. If you've been drinking, do not take acetaminophen, which is found in Tylenol and other pain killers. The drug is toxic to the liver when it interacts with alcohol.

Of course, the best way to avoid a hangover: don't drink and if you do, never drink and drive.

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