DM

Drunk-maxxing 101

A clear, short guide to why hangovers happen, what makes them worse, and what helps.

What causes hangovers

  • Dehydration and electrolyte loss from increased urination.
  • Toxic byproducts like acetaldehyde that drive inflammation.
  • Immune response that feels like a low-grade illness.
  • Disrupted REM sleep leading to grogginess and mood swings.
  • Blood sugar drops, especially if you drink on an empty stomach.
  • Stomach irritation that causes nausea and reflux.
  • Neurochemical rebound that can trigger hangxiety.

What makes hangovers worse

  • Dose is king. More alcohol means a worse hangover.
  • Empty stomach leads to faster absorption.
  • Dark liquors and red wine have more congeners.
  • Sugar-heavy cocktails can increase intake and crash blood sugar.
  • Smoking adds extra toxins and worsens sleep quality.
  • Late nights reduce recovery time.
  • Mixing drinks does not chemically cause hangovers but often leads to overdrinking.

What actually helps

Before or while drinking
  • Eat a full meal with protein and fats.
  • Alternate water with alcohol to pace and hydrate.
  • Stick to clear liquors if you are sensitive.
  • Know your limits. Prevention beats recovery.
The next day
  • Hydrate with water, sports drinks like LMNT zero sugar electrolytes, or broth.
  • Eat light to raise blood sugar and settle your stomach.
  • If the pain is really bad, use ibuprofen or aspirin, not acetaminophen.
  • Sleep and rest. Most symptoms fade in 12 to 24 hours.

What might help

Before + During
  • Prickly pear extract lowers inflammation.
  • Korean pear juice may speed alcohol breakdown.
  • Creatine may help offset alcohol-induced sleep deprivation.
  • L‑cysteine, red ginseng, and clove extract have modest early evidence.
After

What does not work or is risky

  • Drinking more alcohol the next day (Hair of the dog) delays recovery.
  • Acetaminophen (Pain Pills) is risky for your liver after drinking.

Everyone is different

  • Genetics can make hangovers worse for some people.
  • Women often feel stronger effects at lower amounts.
  • Age, sleep, and food all change your outcome.

Why this matters for Drunk Maxxing

drunk-maxxing.com uses these insights to estimate your risk, severity, and the main drivers, then suggests practical steps to recover faster.

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Safety notes
  • Not medical advice.
  • Do not drive after drinking.
  • If you feel severely unwell, seek medical help.