Vitamins to Prevent Hangovers: What You Need to Know

Waking up with a pounding headache, nausea, and fatigue after a night of drinking is a scenario all too familiar to many. Hangovers are not only uncomfortable but can also disrupt your entire day, affecting your productivity and well-being.

In the US, absenteeism and decreased productivity due to hangovers result in an annual economic loss of $148 million. Despite this widespread issue, conventional solutions like hydration and painkillers often fall short of providing comprehensive relief.

Fortunately, there are vitamins and supplements specifically formulated to combat hangover symptoms. This article explores the best vitamins to prevent hangovers, helping you wake up refreshed, regardless of how much you drank the night before.

Ingredients to Look For in Hangover Supplements

When dealing with a hangover, several vitamins and dietary supplements are commonly recommended for their potential to alleviate symptoms. Knowing what vitamins are best for a hangover can significantly help manage its effects.

Here are some of the best vitamins to prevent a hangover and additional supplements that can provide relief:

1. Vitamin B Complex

B vitamins (like B1, B2, B6, and B12) are vital for energy production and metabolism. They can help replenish the body's depleted resources after alcohol consumption. An old study examined a supplement containing B vitamins and found that it significantly improved hangover symptoms like uncomfortable feelings, restlessness, and impatience.

2. Vitamin C

Alcohol consumption can increase oxidative stress and the production of free radicals in the body. Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that can help neutralize these free radicals, potentially reducing some of the oxidative damage caused by alcohol. However, there is no definitive scientific evidence that vitamin C alone can prevent a hangover.

3. Magnesium & Zinc

Two review papers explored the effect of dietary nutrients on hangover severity. One suggested minerals like zinc and magnesium might influence hangovers through their roles in alcohol metabolism and antioxidant/anti-inflammatory properties.

The other paper discussed mechanisms of natural products that could alleviate hangover symptoms. However, both emphasized that their hypotheses are based on limited animal research and stressed the need for human studies to confirm the efficacy of these nutrients and supplements in managing hangovers.

4. L-Cysteine

A semi-essential amino acid that contains sulfur, which contributes to its role in various metabolic processes and antioxidant functions. It is available as a dietary supplement, often in the form of N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC), which is more stable and readily absorbed by the body. In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial with 19 male participants, L-cysteine significantly reduced hangover symptoms. Specifically, a dose of 1200 mg was effective for alleviating nausea and headache, while 600 mg was sufficient for reducing stress and anxiety.

5. Prickly Pear Extract

Prickly pear extract comes from the Opuntia ficus indica cactus. It is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, offering anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits. Studies suggest it can reduce hangover symptoms by inhibiting inflammatory mediators.

In a trial with 64 participants, prickly pear extract significantly reduced hangover symptoms like nausea, dry mouth, and anorexia. Moreover, it lowered overall hangover severity and the risk of severe hangovers.

C-reactive protein levels, linked to inflammation, were higher in the placebo group compared to those who took the extract. The study indicates that hangover symptoms are largely due to inflammation, and prickly pear extract can reduce these symptoms by inhibiting inflammatory mediators.

6. Electrolytes

Alcohol intake may result in dehydration and an imbalance in electrolytes, such as sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium, which are crucial for maintaining proper bodily functions. Replenishing electrolytes helps restore fluid balance, reducing symptoms like dry mouth, headache, and fatigue.

Additionally, electrolytes are essential for nerve function, muscle contraction, and maintaining fluid balance inside and outside of cells. Restoring electrolyte levels can help alleviate muscle cramps and weakness.

7. Ginger

Ginger is known for its anti-nausea and anti-inflammatory properties, which can alleviate common hangover symptoms such as nausea and vomiting. It can also help reduce inflammation, potentially easing headaches and muscle pain associated with hangovers. Consuming ginger tea, ginger ale, or supplements containing ginger can provide relief.

8. Dihydromyricetin (DHM)

A natural compound in the Japanese raisin tree, DHM, has been explored for its capacity to mitigate hangover symptoms and improve alcohol metabolism. Researchers found that DHM helps reduce the immediate effects of alcohol consumption, which could imply a potential benefit in mitigating some symptoms of hangovers.

More importantly, DHM alleviates withdrawal symptoms like increased anxiety, seizure susceptibility, and tolerance in alcohol use disorders (AUDs) by interacting with GABAA receptors.

It's important to note that while these supplements may help alleviate symptoms, they are not a cure for hangovers. The best way to avoid a hangover is to drink alcohol in moderation and stay hydrated.

Best Hangover Vitamins for Fast Recovery and Relief

Choosing the best vitamins for hangover relief can significantly improve your recovery experience. We have compiled a list of the top-rated hangover vitamins to help you feel better faster and more effectively. In our research, we considered several key factors:

• Cost
• Ingredients
• Ease of consumption
• Additional ingredients for enhanced recovery
• Customer reviews and satisfaction

Explore our top recommendations for the best hangover vitamins below!

Celebrate without regrets with Purple Tree’s multivitamin supplement. Each capsule is expertly formulated with key ingredients like dihydromyricetin (DHM), milk thistle, cactus prickly pear extract, and a blend of vitamins like B vitamins, magnesium, zinc, and manganese to prevent hangover symptoms effectively.

The inclusion of B vitamins and quercetin enhances energy levels and supports immune function, making it a holistic solution for post-celebration recovery. Users rave about its effectiveness, with many 5-star reviews praising its ability to prevent hangover symptoms like headache and fatigue.

A bottle containing 30 capsules costs $24.95 and provides 15 servings. The product is packaged in a convenient, travel-friendly bottle, ensuring you can take it anywhere you go.

Drinkwel Better Mornings, priced at $19.99 for 30 capsules, is a premium multivitamin supplement formulated by two Berkeley graduates with a PhD in Biomedical Science and a Naturopathic Physician. It aims to replenish essential nutrients, support liver health, and help the body process alcohol-induced toxins.

Each bottle contains 30 vegetarian capsules, with key ingredients for hangover prevention, including:

• DHM
• Milk Thistle
• Artichoke
• Schisandra
• Bupleurum
• Amino Acids
• Vitamins and minerals

The product has been featured on various reputable platforms such as The Today Show and Men's Vogue, highlighting its credibility and effectiveness.

Customer feedback on Amazon highlights the effectiveness of Drinkwel, with many saying that it's the best vitamin to take for a hangover. One user reported significantly reduced morning grogginess and no headache after a night of drinking, allowing for a productive day ahead.

DHM Depot’s Dihydromyricetin, priced at $22.95 for a bottle of 90 capsules, is an effective hangover prevention supplement derived from the Japanese Raisin Tree (Ampelopsis grossedentata). This natural supplement has gained popularity due to its ability to enhance alcohol metabolism, reduce inflammation, and protect the liver. Each serving contains 300mg of pure DHM, ensuring potent effects for mitigating hangover symptoms.

DHM stands out due to its comprehensive approach to combating hangovers. It not only alleviates common symptoms like headaches and nausea but also supports liver detoxification and reduces anxiety related to alcohol consumption.

User reviews highlight the effectiveness of DHM in preventing hangovers and supporting liver health. Many users have praised its ability to significantly reduce hangover symptoms, allowing them to feel better the next day.

More Labs Morning Recovery is engineered with patent-pending technology to help you rehydrate, restore essential nutrients, and feel revitalized after consuming alcoholic beverages. Priced at $35.99 for a pack of six, this drink is a convenient solution for those who enjoy drinking but want to avoid the after-effects. Each single-serving bottle is TSA-friendly and easy to carry, making it perfect for use at home, parties, or while traveling.

The proprietary blend includes a mix of electrolytes and natural ingredients such as milk thistle, prickly pear extract, hovenia dulcis, and korean pear extract. This formulation works by aiding your body's natural recovery process, allowing you to wake up feeling refreshed and ready for the day. Simply consume one full bottle of Morning Recovery before your first drink, between drinks, or up to one hour after your last drink to experience its benefits.

Morning Recovery is free from common allergens, including caffeine, soy, gluten, nuts, and lactose. It is also non-GMO and contains no artificial additives, making it one of the best hangover vitamins on the market.

Double Wood Supplements' Dihydromyricetin (DHM) capsules are a premium hangover prevention supplement designed to support liver health and recovery. Priced at $24.95 for a 30-tablet bottle, it delivers 1000 mg of DHM per tablet.

The primary ingredient, Dihydromyricetin, is renowned for its ability to break down acetaldehyde, a toxic byproduct of alcohol metabolism, thereby reducing hangover symptoms. DHM also promotes liver health, aiding in the organ's detoxification processes. The supplement is further enhanced with electrolytes to assist in rehydration, making it an all-around solution for those looking to maintain their wellness after a night of drinking.

Users have reported that the supplement helps them wake up feeling less groggy after consuming alcohol. They also note that it significantly reduces headaches and nausea, and improves their quality of sleep post-drinking. Additionally, customers have mentioned that it alleviates anxiety and prevents severe headaches, making it a comprehensive solution for hangover relief.

Modern Herbs’ ILUNA Recovery is a premium plant- and herb-based recovery aid. Priced at $34.99 for a pack of 10, this product is doctor-formulated using ancient healing practices blended with modern innovation.

Key ingredients include milk thistle, kudzu, and goji berry, which are known for their liver support and detoxifying properties. ILUNA recovery promises the following benefits:

• Support alcohol metabolism
• Protect and enhance liver function
• Stabilize brain function
• Aid digestion
• Helps discharge toxins
• Prevents anxiety post-drinking

Customers report that the vitamin is effective in preventing hangovers without causing nausea or stomach issues. Many users note that it is gentle on their stomach and does not induce jitters. Overall, the product receives positive feedback for alleviating hangover symptoms. Users also mention that it helps them wake up feeling refreshed and energized, improves their sleep quality, and enhances their mood.

Super Bonsai Super Recovery capsules are your ultimate solution to post-celebration recovery, designed to help you bounce back from a night of drinking with ease. Priced at $38.95, these capsules are packed with a blend of natural ingredients that support your body's recovery processes and help prevent hangovers. Key ingredients of this hangover vitamin include:

• DHM
• Milk Thistle
• Prickly Pear
• Korean Panax Ginseng
• Ginger
• Turmeric
• Vitamin B Complex
• Zinc Oxide

SuperBonsai Super Recovery is backed by rigorous testing to ensure efficacy and safety. Additionally, these capsules are vegan, non-GMO, sugar-free, and free from artificial flavors.

Customers appreciate the quality of the supplement, noting its effectiveness in reducing hangovers and headaches. They find it highly beneficial, remarking that it outperforms other options in preventing hangovers and is an ideal solution.

Flyby Recovery Pills, priced at $34.99, are another hangover vitamin designed to help you bounce back quickly and effectively after a night out. It contains DHM, milk thistle, prickly pear, electrolytes, and B vitamins to support energy production and reduce fatigue, ensuring you wake up feeling refreshed.

Flyby products are gluten-free, non-GMO, and free from synthetic fillers and colorants, making them a safe choice for most users.

Many users have highlighted their effectiveness in preventing hangovers and supporting overall well-being after drinking. Reviews often mention the convenience and noticeable difference in how they feel the next morning, with many customers becoming repeat buyers due to the product’s reliability and quality.

The Blowfish Wingman is an innovative pre-drinking supplement that supports your body during a night out, ensuring you wake up feeling refreshed. Priced at $18.99 for a bottle of 30 capsules, this product is an excellent addition to your nightly routine.

Each serving is packed with 1000 mg of DHM, a potent liver-supporting herb, alongside essential electrolytes, l-cysteine, vitamins, amino acids, and antioxidants. These ingredients work synergistically to help your body metabolize alcohol efficiently, reducing the after-effects of drinking.

This supplement is not only effective but also convenient, as it can be taken at the beginning, during, or even at the end of your evening. For those with dietary restrictions, Blowfish Wingman is vegan, kosher, non-GMO, and gluten-free.

H-PROOF The Anytime You Drink Vitamin, available for $59.00, is a doctor-developed chewable vitamin designed to support alcohol metabolism, liver health, and overall immunity, ensuring you wake up feeling better than you should. Each package contains 40 chewable tablets (20 servings) in a delicious black cherry flavor. This vitamin also comes in other flavors like green apple and tangerine.

H-PROOF stands out due to its science-backed formulation developed by a board-certified medical doctor, ensuring each ingredient is highly bioavailable and effective.

Takeaway

Finding the best hangover vitamin can be a game-changer for those who want to enjoy their celebrations without suffering the next day. After evaluating hangover vitamins on the market, Purple Tree Natural Multivitamin, Drinkwel Multivitamin, and DHM Depot Dihydromyricetin Supplement stood out as the best hangover vitamins available.

Purple Tree effectively prevents hangover symptoms with its blend of DHM, milk thistle, and B vitamins. Drinkwel, despite requiring three capsules, excels with its scientifically formulated nutrient replenishment and liver support. Lastly, DHM Depot, needing just one capsule per serving, provides a potent and convenient solution with 300 mg of pure DHM.

Choosing the best hangover vitamin depends on individual needs and preferences. It's important to note that while these supplements may help alleviate symptoms, they are not a cure for hangovers. The best way to avoid a hangover is to drink alcohol responsibly and stay hydrated.

What is the best way to cure hangovers with vitamins?

The best way to cure a hangover with vitamins involves a combination of hydration, proper nutrition, and targeted vitamin supplementation. Drinking plenty of water before, during, and after alcohol consumption is crucial. Alcohol is a diuretic, leading to dehydration, which can worsen hangover symptoms. While there is no magic cure, certain vitamins can help alleviate symptoms and speed up recovery.

What are the best vitamins to cure a hangover?

The best vitamins to cure a hangover include B vitamins, vitamin C, magnesium, and zinc. Taking a multivitamin that includes these essential vitamins and minerals can be an effective way to address hangover symptoms. Additionally, incorporating foods rich in these vitamins, such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, and whole grains, can further aid in recovery. Note that while these vitamins can help alleviate hangover symptoms, they are not a cure-all. It is also important to get plenty of rest, eat a balanced meal, and avoid consuming excessive amounts of alcohol.

Are there any side effects of taking hangover vitamins?

Most people tolerate hangover vitamins well, but taking them in excessive amounts can lead to side effects. For example, too much vitamin B6 can cause nerve damage, and excessive vitamin C can lead to digestive issues. It’s important to follow recommended dosages to avoid any adverse effects and to truly benefit from the best hangover vitamins.

Can taking a multivitamin before drinking prevent a hangover?

While taking a multivitamin before drinking may help reduce the severity of a hangover, it’s not a guaranteed prevention method. The best hangover vitamins can help replenish depleted nutrients and support your body’s detoxification processes, but other factors like hydration, alcohol consumption rate, and individual tolerance levels also play a significant role.

When is the best time to take hangover vitamins?

Pre-loading with vitamins can help prepare your body for alcohol consumption while taking them the next day can aid in replenishing depleted nutrients. Always ensure you stay hydrated and consume a balanced diet alongside the best hangover vitamins for optimal results.