Best Hangover Supplements In 2024 | Is Liquid IV Worth It For You? (Review)
What Is A Hangover | Causes For A Hangover | Hangover Symptoms | Popular Hangover Supplements | Liver Support Blends | What Is Liquid IV | FAQ | Warnings And Side Effects | Disclaimer
We’ve all been there—the nights where one drink turns to one too many and regret the next day. But it’s 2024, and we don’t have to suffer through our hangovers anymore or scour the internet for “life hacks” to get through them. Instead, hangover supplements are a rising popular way to address the symptoms of a hangover and help the body recover from the effects of alcohol consumption. Of course, they won’t remove the brute of what you consumed, but they may support your morning recovery.
What Is A Hangover?
A hangover can consist of unpleasant symptoms that typically occur after drinking alcohol. The severity of a hangover can vary depending on factors such as the amount of alcohol consumed and individual tolerance. Hangovers can last for several hours or even a whole day. Additionally, different types of alcohol can affect hangovers in different ways.
- Beer is made from barley and hops and contains a lower alcohol content than spirits. However, beer can still cause a hangover, and the symptoms are similar to those caused by other types of alcohol.
- Wine is made from fermented grapes and has a higher alcohol content than beer. Therefore, red wine may cause more severe hangovers than white wine. This is because red wine contains more congeners and impurities that can contribute to the severity of a hangover.
- Spirits, such as whiskey, vodka, and gin, tend to have the highest alcohol content of any alcohol. This means that a person may become more quickly intoxicated when consuming spirits. This, in turn, can lead to a more severe hangover.
Causes For A Hangover:
You probably don’t get a hangover every time you drink, and multiple factors contribute to that: (1,2,3,4)
- Alcohol metabolism: When you drink alcohol, your body breaks it down and converts it in the liver into a toxic substance called acetaldehyde, which can cause inflammation and damage your organs. The longer it takes for your body to remove acetaldehyde, the worse you may feel.†
- Dehydration: Alcohol is a diuretic that increases urine production and can cause dehydration, which may deplete your body’s nutrients. This can lead to dry mouth, thirst, and headaches.†
- Electrolyte imbalances: Alcohol consumption can disrupt the balance of electrolytes in the body, such as potassium and sodium, which can contribute to symptoms like fatigue and muscle weakness or cramping.†
- Sleep disruption: Alcohol can disrupt the normal sleep cycle and lead to poor quality of sleep, which can contribute to fatigue and poor concentration.†
- Congeners: Congeners are impurities found in alcoholic beverages and are thought to contribute to the severity of a hangover. Darker-colored drinks like red wine, brandy, and whiskey tend to have more congeners than lighter-colored beverages like vodka and gin.†
- Up-Regulation of Cytokine Production: There is evidence that alcohol may impact cytokines communication with the brain. This release of pro-inflammatory cytokines can result in anxiety-like behavior and impaired cognitive function, among other issues.†
It’s also worth noting that the relationship between alcohol and hangover is not fully understood, and more research is needed to understand the underlying mechanisms.
Hangover Symptoms:
The symptoms of a hangover can vary from person to person and range from mild to severe. Some common symptoms of a hangover include: (3)
- Fatigue, weakness, and thirst
- Headache and muscle aches
- Nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain
- Decreased sleep
- Vertigo and sensitivity to light and sound
- Decreased attention and concentration
- Depression, anxiety, and irritability
- Tremor, sweating, and increased pulse and blood pressure
Popular Hangover Supplements:
Now that we’ve gone over the basics of a hangover, how do we combat and prevent them with supplements?
Hangover supplements may support the body’s natural processes, such as replenishing lost nutrients, rehydrating the body, and supporting liver function. Common ingredients in hangover supplements include vitamins, antioxidants, electrolytes, amino acids, and herbs. These supplements are available in various forms, such as capsules, powders, and drinks. They are often taken before, during, or after drinking alcohol to help prevent or reduce the severity of a hangover. But, many different hangover supplements are available on the market, each containing a unique blend of ingredients.
Some popular hangover supplements include:
It’s important to note that these supplements may not have the same effect for everyone, and some of these ingredients may interact with other medications.
- L-Cysteine or N-Acetyl Cysteine
- Zinc
- Milk Thistle Extract
- Vitamin B Complex
- Ginseng
- Electrolytes
- Dihydromyricetin
- Prickly Pear Extract
L-Cysteine/NAC:
L-Cysteine (or NAC) is a semi-essential amino acid that may help alleviate hangover symptoms by reducing acetaldehyde toxicity and supporting liver function. L-Cysteine may also help the liver break down acetaldehyde more efficiently, which can further reduce its toxic effects. (5,6)
Zinc:
Similar to NAC, Zinc may help alleviate hangover symptoms by reducing the production of acetaldehyde and supporting liver function. Some studies suggest that taking zinc supplements before drinking or during a hangover may reduce symptoms such as nausea, headache, and fatigue. (7)
Milk Thistle Extract:
Milk thistle extract is a herbal remedy commonly used to support liver health. The active ingredient in milk thistle is silymarin, which may have potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Some studies have shown that milk thistle extract may help protect the liver from damage caused by alcohol and other toxins. (8,9)
Vitamin B Complex:
B vitamins play a crucial role in metabolism and energy production, and a deficiency can lead to fatigue and sluggishness. Additionally, B vitamins are involved in liver function and can help the liver process and eliminate toxins from the body, including alcohol. (7,10,11)
Ginseng:
Similarly, Ginseng can help reduce inflammation, boost energy levels, and support liver function. Ginseng may also have a protective effect on the liver and may help reduce the damage caused by excessive alcohol consumption. (12,13)
Electrolytes:
Taking electrolytes can replenish the minerals lost due to excessive alcohol consumption. Alcohol dehydrates the body and can cause electrolyte imbalances, leading to headaches, fatigue, muscle cramps, and nausea. (14,15,16)
Dihydromyricetin (DHM):
Dihydromyricetin, also known as Ampelopsin, is a natural compound in certain plants that may reduce the severity of alcohol’s effects on the body. DHM may also help improve liver function and support liver health, which can be impacted by excessive alcohol consumption. (17,18,19)
Prickly Pear Extract:
Prickly pear is a natural antioxidant that can help protect the liver from the damage caused by excessive alcohol consumption. Additionally, prickly pear extract may help reduce symptoms such as headache, nausea, and fatigue commonly associated with a hangover. (20,21)
Popular Hangover Supplement Liver Support Blends:
These blends typically contain a combination of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and herbal extracts that have positively impacted hangover symptoms and liver health. This section aims to provide an overview of these popular hangover supplement blends, their key ingredients, and how they can help reduce the severity of a hangover and support overall liver health.
- Liver-Rx® by Hi-Tech Pharmaceuticals
- Liver D Tox by AllMax Nutrition
- Anti-Alcohol Complex by Life Extension
- Adrenal Care by Blackstone Labs
Liver-Rx® By Hi-Tech Pharmaceuticals:
What To Expect:
Liver-Rx® aims to support liver health through a blend of herbal extracts and antioxidants. The formula in Liver-RX® includes various compounds that can protect the liver from damage caused by toxins such as alcohol and drugs. Silymarin is the formula’s main ingredient which helps protect liver cells from toxins, stabilize the structural integrity of liver cells, and aid in liver cell regeneration. At the same time, NAC is a powerful antioxidant that can help to neutralize free radicals and protect the liver from oxidative stress. Then there is ALA which also has antioxidant properties and helps to preserve other antioxidants in the body. Finally, Picrorhiza kurroa, Schisandra chinensis, and Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice), also included in Liver-Rx, have some benefits in protecting the liver and reducing inflammation.†
How To Take Liver-RX®:
The manufacturer recommends taking three (3) tablets daily. However, do not exceed nine pills per day.
Liver-RX® Review By Calvin: “Easy to take tablets, I feel healthier than i did before, using it as a support stack”
Liver D Tox By AllMax Nutrition:
What To Expect:
Allmax Liver D-Tox is a 21-day liver detox system that promotes healthy liver function by providing a blend of vitamins and antioxidants. The formula includes ingredients such as Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Selenium, and NAC, which have powerful antioxidant properties; Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum) extract that can reduce liver hepatotoxins; Turmeric (Curcuma longa) extract that has potent detoxification and antioxidation functions; Artichoke (Cynara cardunculus) extract which helps to carry toxins from the liver out of the body; and Kutki (Picrorhiza kurroa) extract which supports liver function. While this product is not specifically made for hangovers, some of the ingredients in Allmax Liver D-Tox may provide potential benefits for the liver in detoxifying the by-products of alcohol consumption.†
How To Take Liver D Tox:
The manufacturer recommends taking one (1) capsule twice daily for three weeks (21 days).
Liver D Tox Review By Cody: “Works as advertised! I’ve tried several different products over the years and this one has yielded more results than the rest of them combined.”
Anti-Alcohol Complex By Life Extension:
What To Expect:
Anti-Alcohol Complex is a supplement that aims to support healthy liver function and detoxification by providing a blend of nutrients and antioxidants. Anti-Alcohol Complex contains Vitamin B1, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Selenium, Zinc, Benfotiamine, Glutathione, and NAC, which helps to protect cells from oxidative stress. It also contains Chlorophyllin, Leucoselect® (grapeseed extract), silymarin (milk thistle extract), and trans-resveratrol, which can help protect the liver from oxidative stress and promote healthy liver function by aiding in neutralizing potentially harmful toxins. Finally, Clovinol® clove extract may promote the body’s natural detoxification process, offset oxidative stress, and encourages healthy inflammation.†
How To Take Anti-Alcohol Complex:
The manufacturer recommends adults aged 21 and over should take one (1) capsule with each alcoholic beverage, up to five capsules per day, or as advised by a healthcare practitioner.
Five capsules may also be taken at once before or after alcoholic beverages.
Anti-Alcohol Complex Review By Andrew: “I didn’t expect much from this product when I tried it. But, I was happy to be wrong. I take it as it’s recommended with drinks and it seems to help my body process/recover from alcohol.”
Adrenal Care By Blackstone Labs:
What To Expect:
Adrenal Care is a supplement by Blackstone Labs that aims to support the body’s ability to cope with stress by promoting the structure of the HPA axis gland and helping to recover from adrenal fatigue. The formula includes ingredients such as Zinc, Inositol Hexanicotinate, DMAE, Bovine Adrenal Gland Extract, Magnesium Glycinate, and Glycyrrhetinic Acid (Licorice Extract). These ingredients may have the ability to support and regulate the adrenal hormones while providing the body with the raw materials it needs to fight back against the physical symptoms of stress, as a result, this may help normalize your tolerance to stress-inducing stimulants. While Adrenal Care is not explicitly designed to help with a hangover, some of the ingredients may have properties that may help alleviate symptoms of a hangover, such as magnesium glycinate, which can help with relaxation.†
How To Take Adrenal Care:
The manufacturer recommends taking two (2) Tablets twice daily. Do not exceed four (4) tablets daily. Finish the entire contents of the bottle over thirty (30) days.
Adrenal Care Review By Brandon: “My energy levels are way higher and I’m even sleeping better since taking this. Highly recommend.”
What Is Liquid IV?
Liquid IV is a brand of hydration supplement available in the form of a powder mixed with water to create a drink. The powder contains vitamins, minerals, and electrolytes designed to help rehydrate the body and replenish lost nutrients. Some key ingredients in Liquid IV include Vitamin C, Vitamin B3, Vitamin B5, Vitamin B6, and Vitamin B12, and electrolytes such as potassium, sodium, and magnesium. According to the company, the formula is designed to provide the same hydration benefits as drinking 2-3 bottles of water. In addition, the product claims to help with symptoms of dehydration, such as fatigue, dry mouth, headache, and poor concentration.†
Similar To Liquid IV:
- SuperHuman Hydration by Alpha Lion
- EAA Plus Hydration by Nutrex Research
- Carbion+ by AllMax Nutrition
SuperHuman Hydration By Alpha Lion:
What To Expect:
SuperHuman Hydration is a supplement from Alpha Lion, a company specializing in sports nutrition supplements. SuperHuman Hydration is designed to help athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and others stay hydrated during intense physical activity. The formula contains a blend of ingredients intended to promote hydration, support electrolyte balance, and help reduce the risk of dehydration.†
How Do They Compare:
SuperHuman Hydration and liquid IV are both hydration supplements designed to help support hydration and electrolyte balance. However, the two products have some key differences, like the ingredients. SuperHuman Hydration contains a blend of electrolytes, Taurine, Aquamin, and Senactiv. Whereas Liquid IV typically contains a blend of electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium, along with other ingredients like vitamins and antioxidants. Both SuperHuman Hydration and liquid IV are intended to be consumed before, during, and after physical activity to help maintain hydration and support electrolyte balance. However, it’s important to check the liquid IV ingredients as some may contain added sugars, artificial ingredients, and preservatives.†
How To Take SuperHuman Hydration:
The manufacturer recommends mixing one (1) scoop with 12-14oz of water (adjust for taste preference). Take once or twice per day.
SuperHuman Hydration Review By Kyle: “Formulation is great! Really feel the difference. I’ve used this the mornings after a night out as well.”
EAA Plus Hydration By Nutrex Research:
What To Expect:
EAA Plus Hydration by Nutrex Research is an amino acid supplement designed to provide hydration and support muscle recovery and growth. The supplement contains a blend of essential amino acids (EAAs), which are the building blocks of protein and are necessary for muscle growth and repair. It also includes a hydration complex that contains ingredients such as coconut water powder and electrolytes like sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium, which are intended to promote hydration and support electrolyte balance.†
How Do They Compare:
Compared to liquid IV, EAA Plus Hydration is a more comprehensive supplement that aims to hydrate and provides essential amino acids critical for muscle growth and repair. Additionally, EAA Plus Hydration can be consumed before, during, and after physical activity to support muscle recovery and growth, while liquid IV is mainly used to hydrate the body.†
How To Take Nutrex EAA+ Hydration:
The manufacturer recommends mixing one (1) scoop in 10-16oz of water daily and drinking it between meals. On training days, it is ideally consumed pre, during, or immediately after as a post-workout.
Nutrex EAA+ Hydration Review By Cal: “I can tell the difference between my workouts and my recovery, and it tastes great. Also, pretty good after too many drinks.”
Carbion+ By AllMax Nutrition:
What To Expect:
Carbion+ is a carbohydrate supplement produced by AllMax Nutrition. It is a powdered supplement that contains a blend of complex carbohydrates, such as cluster dextrin and waxy maize, as well as additional ingredients like electrolytes and Prickly Pear Cactus. The intended purpose of Carbion+ is to provide energy and support recovery during intense physical activity.†
How Do They Compare:
Carbion+ is a carbohydrate supplement designed to provide a phased delivery of energy and improve athletic performance, while liquid IV is a hydration and electrolyte replenishment solution.†
How To Take Allmax Carbion+:
The manufacturer recommends mixing one serving (1/2 scoop) with 8-12oz of water.
Allmax Carbion+Hydration Review By Mark: “Perfect balances of Carbs and Electrolytes to fuel my workouts compared to other carb products I’ve tried. I like to use Carbion as an intra-workout or post-workout.”
Hangover Supplements FAQ:
Here are some frequently asked questions about hangover supplements:
What Are Alternative Hangover Cures? |
|---|
| Some common hangover cures include drinking water or sports drinks to rehydrate the body, taking over-the-counter pain relievers to alleviate headaches, and eating a balanced meal to replenish lost nutrients. Other popular remedies include rest, sleep, and drinking a cup of coffee.† |
Can Having More Alcohol Cure A Hangover? |
| Drinking more alcohol to “cure” a hangover is not recommended and is ineffective. This is known as the “hair of the dog” approach. The aim of this approach is that hangovers are a form of alcohol withdrawal, so by drinking more alcohol, you may ease the withdrawal. However, this can lead to a cycle of alcohol consumption and worsening hangover symptoms.† |
Is It Possible To Naturally Prevent A Hangover? |
| The most effective way to prevent a hangover is to drink in moderation and avoid binge drinking. Drinking water or non-alcoholic beverages in between alcoholic drinks can help to reduce the effects of alcohol and prevent dehydration. Eating a meal before drinking can also help to slow down the absorption of alcohol and reduce the severity of a hangover.† |
Are There Any Medications That Can Cure A Hangover? |
| There are no medications specifically approved to cure a hangover. However, some over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen, can help alleviate headaches and other symptoms. It’s essential to consult a healthcare professional before taking any medication, particularly if you are taking other medications.† |
Are There Any Side Effects of Hangover Supplements? |
| Most hangover supplements are safe, but some people may experience side effects such as gastrointestinal discomfort, headaches, or allergic reactions. If you experience severe side effects, stop taking the supplement and consult a healthcare professional immediately.† |
Wrapping Up!
And this marks the end of our post on Hangover Supplements. Thank you for reading! And as always, if there was something that wasn’t clear, another question you might have, or if you have another idea for a blog, Email Us!
Are you looking for more to read? Check out our other blogs!
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Warnings And Side Effects:
Discuss with your physician before taking the products mentioned in this post if you have a medical condition or are taking any prescription medications. Stop using it and discuss with your physician if any adverse effects occur. Do not exceed the suggested doses. Do not take it if pregnant or lactating. You must be 18 years old to use this product.
If you or someone you know is struggling with alcoholism, contact a treatment provider to learn more about recovery options.
Disclaimer:
†Please note the intention of the information provided is for reference only. Furthermore, we are in no way providing medical advice or instruction. Instead, the information provided in this guide/blog utilizes anecdotal information and available studies/reviews. While our goal is to maintain and display accurate information, we can’t guarantee it represents the latest formulation of the product or information. Therefore, please visit the manufacturer’s website if you have any concerns. Also, the information above does not represent our views here at Same Day Supplements. Instead, these are the manufacturers’ and users’ views and information. Additionally, the Food and Drug Administration has not evaluated these statements. Finally, these products aim not to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or illness.