Common hangover myths: Wrong food choices force pancreas into crisis

Many people believe that greasy borscht, spicy shashlik, or strong coffee can help alleviate a hangover. However, these remedies often have the opposite effect. According to Sergey Litkov, a narcologist at the "AlkoSpas" clinic, such methods overlook two main issues: systemic intoxication and critical dehydration. Instead of taxing the digestive system, the priority should be on restoring the body's water and electrolyte balance. Why Fatty Foods and Pickle Juice Don't Work After consuming alcohol, the body craves liquid rather than calories. If nausea and weakness occur, forcing food intake can be dangerous. It is advisable to sip plain water, non-carbonated mineral water, or electrolyte solutions slowly. Food can only be reintroduced once appetite returns, with suggestions for light options such as chicken broth, rice, or bananas. “Many mistakenly believe that fat ‘binds’ alcohol, but the liver and stomach take a double hit. Heavy foods impede toxin elimination and overload the pancreas,” explains Litkov. The specialist dismantles the myth surrounding pickle juice as well. While salt can help retain water, the vinegar in pickling solutions irritates the stomach lining. Coffee may provide a temporary boost, but it exacerbates dehydration and can cause spikes in blood pressure for those with hypertension.