What To Eat Before & After You Drink

A big night out on the town or at a party means one thing — the booze will be flowing. At least that’s how it is in my world. Unfortunately, when I know I have a big night of drinking coming up, I rarely remember to prep accordingly, and end up either getting sick or having a massive hangover the next day. Funny enough, knowing what to eat before and after you drink will actually help you with your alcohol consumption, and even the hangover the following morning.

Alcohol gets into your bloodstream through your stomach, so the less that’s in there, the quicker it’s going to get to you. That doesn’t make a great night — it just makes for a couple great hours before you’re slurring your words, falling asleep on a barstool, or getting carried home by your bestie who will make you pay for the short-lived evening the following morning by waking you up at 6 a.m.

If you want to have a good night, it’s always best to be just a little prepared. So, I’m rounding up exactly what you should be eating before AND after you hop on the booze train. You’ll thank me for it later, trust me.

What To Eat BEFORE You Drink

Natural Fats

You want something that has a little natural fat to slow down the rate of food leaving your stomach. Think of it as building a good base layer before the booze gets poured on top. No, not greasy fast food — I’m talking about foods like salmon, or avocados.

Proteins

The rule of thumb is to always drink on a full stomach. Any form of protein will be a godsend of a base layer to build. You’ll feel fuller longer, and will hopefully be able to avoid the horrible mid-drinking munchies that only end up making you feel worse.

Healthy Starches

Eating a balanced meal with brown rice or sweet potato will help round out your hearty meal, and will keep your blood sugar stable. It’ll also give you tons of energy, so you can keep the party going all night long.

Water

Get hydrated before you hit the bars. Alcohol dehydrates you, and that’s what causes those killer hangover headaches. The more water you drink, the better you’ll feel during the night and the next morning.

What To Eat AFTER You Drink

Salad

Yes, you’d love nothing more than to hit that 24-hour pizza shop with the greasiest pizza you’ve ever tasted. However, that greasy food will only leave you feeling bloated the next morning. Instead, opt for a salad or veggie wrap that will get some healthy vitamins in you.

Lean Meats

Pass on the burger, and instead opt for something lean. Basic grilled chicken or fish can be the perfect filling food that you’re craving in your intoxicated state, but it won’t clog up your arteries and cause severe acid reflux like a double-cheeseburger will.

Eggs

Eggs are the miracle worker when it comes to curing hangovers. They reduce the effects of alcohol toxins, and also will help your liver out. Eat them in the morning to make yourself feel that much better!

Water

Again, drink water. You have to hydrate, or else get ready for the oh-so fun hangover that makes you lose one or two days to bloating, headaches, shakes, and overall discomfort. Ick.

Just remember, don't eat right before you go to bed. Instead, pop a multi-vitamin with a giant glass of water. You’ll be evened out by morning, don’t worry. Party on!

For more food and booze ideas, check out Bustle on YouTube.

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