Smoking and alcohol consumption lead to the experience of stronger hangover symptoms, study results show.
Cigarette smoke contains the chemical acetaldehyde, which is associated with a hangover.
Researchers suggest that nicotine in cigarettes may have a negative effect on the nervous system.
People who smoke cigarettes and consume alcohol are more likely to suffer from a hangover, which is more intense than those who do not use tobacco products, explains lead researcher Dr. Damar Rosenov from the American University "Brown ”.
Smoking itself is associated with an increased risk of getting a hangover than when you do not smoke at all, the expert said.
The results are based on a study of 113 students who reported on their smoking and alcohol use habits for eight weeks.
Participants who increased alcohol consumption and smoked more cigarettes on the same day were found to be more likely to suffer from a hangover and more unpleasant symptoms caused by the effects of alcoholic beverages.
Symptoms include headache, fatigue, nausea and difficulty concentrating.
However, the exact mechanisms of the effects of cigarettes on the effects of alcohol are not yet clear.
According to one theory, tobacco smoke contains acetaldehyde, which is also formed in tissues when alcohol is used. He is responsible for experiencing the unpleasant symptoms of a hangover.
Another study shows that nicotinic receptors in the brain are linked to a person's subjective response to alcohol. For example, smoking and drinking alcohol increase the release of dopamine, the so-called pleasure hormone. Therefore, the very fact that nicotine and alcohol are related in the brain may explain why smoking is associated with a hangover, says Dr. Damar Rosenov.
How to prevent a hangover?
- According to experts, the best way to prevent a hangover is not to drink alcohol or consume it in reasonable quantities.
- Experts advise you not to drink on an empty stomach. It is recommended to eat foods containing carbohydrates, such as pasta or rice, and fats before drinking alcohol. This will slow down the absorption of alcohol.
- Do not consume dark colored drinks if you find that you are sensitive to them. They contain natural chemicals called congeners, which irritate the blood vessels and tissues in the brain and can worsen the symptoms of a hangover.
- Drink water or other non-carbonated soft drinks between each sip of alcohol. Carbonated drinks accelerate the absorption of alcohol.
- Drink water before bed. Keep a glass of water by your bed to drink if you wake up at night.