Best bets to beat a hangover

Everyone knows someone who absolutely swears by a greasy egg sandwich from the corner diner to erase the symptoms of a hangover—but the only proven way to get rid of a hangover is to wait it out. (Hangovers usually last for 8 to 24 hours.) That said, some commonly touted hangover cures—while not proven effective—are worth a try if you’re truly in pain.

Related: Foods That Fight Pain

One study conducted in the 1970s found that drinking fruit juice or eating fruit relieved some hangover symptoms. Fruits and fruit juices contain a sugar called fructose, which may help your body clear alcohol faster, according to the National Institutes of Health. Fruits and vegetables also contain minerals, such as potassium, that are important in restoring your electrolyte balance and replenishing your body’s fluids.

Related: Eating Well by Color

Related recipe from Eating Well: Bagel Gone Bananas

Starchy carbohydrates, such as toast or crackers, may help to counteract nausea and low blood sugar (symptoms include headaches, fatigue and cold sweats) caused by long bouts of drinking with little food, according to an article in the journal Alcohol Health & Research World.

Related: 6 Reasons You Should be Eating Carbs

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Drinking alcohol causes your body to lose a lot of water, especially if you’ve been sick to your stomach. Rehydrating—with water or sports drinks that contain electrolytes, such as sodium and potassium—could help you feel better.

Related recipe from Eating Well: Cran Razzy

The salt and potassium in bouillon-based soup may replace lost electrolytes, relieving some of the symptoms of dehydration: headache, weakness, dizziness.

Related recipe from Eating Well: Brothy Chinese Noodles

Caffeine can help relieve that “jet lag” feeling. Try drinking a cup of caffeinated coffee or tea.

Related recipe from Eating Well: Greek Iced Coffee