Best food before drinking alcohol: Part two
- Dietitian.Lauren Hmede
- May 16, 2019
- 3 min read
8. Asparagus
It is a great source of vitamins and minerals in addition it has been well studied for its ability to promote liver health.
Asparagus is a great source of antioxidants like ferulic acid, kaempferol, quercetin, rutin, and isorhamnetin, which prevent cell damage caused by excess alcohol consumption.
9. Grapefruit
They are citrus fruit that provide fiber, vitamin C, and vitamin A in each serving.
It also contains naringenin and naringin, two antioxidant compounds that have been shown to prevent liver damage and help optimize liver health in test-tube studies.
Plus, a six-week rat study found that drinking grapefruit juice increased levels of several enzymes involved in liver function and detoxification.
However you need to know that grapefruit may interact with certain medications so be sure to speak with your healthcare provider if you have any concerns.
10. Melon
Melons are very rich in water and can help keep you hydrated while drinking.
For example, watermelon is made up of approximately 92% water, while cantaloupe is comprised of about 90%.
These fruits are also rich in important electrolytes, such as potassium, which can quickly become depleted with excess alcohol consumption.
Honeydew, watermelon, and cantaloupe all make refreshing, hydrating snacks that can be cut into wedges or cubes.
11. Avocado
Avocados are rich in heart healthy fat: monounsaturated fatty acids.
Due to their content of fat, they slow absorption of alcohol.
Plus, avocados are high in potassium to help balance electrolytes, with just half an avocado providing 7% of your daily potassium needs.
12. Quinoa
It is a whole grain high in protein, fiber, and a number of essential micronutrients.
It’s particularly high in magnesium and potassium both minerals are important for electroluyte balance.
Finally, quinoa is a good source of antioxidants like quercetin, ferulic acid, catechin, and kaempferol, which can protect against the buildup of harmful molecules known as free radicals caused by excessive alcohol consumption.
13. Beets
Beets are superfood due to their antioxidant activity.
One animal study showed that beetroot juice exhibited a protective effect on liver cells, decreasing induced cell damage by 38%.
Additional research found that giving beetroot juice to rats increased levels of several enzymes involved in detoxification and liver function.
14. Sweet potatoes
Sweet potatoes are not only a great source of potassium to help balance electrolyte levels when drinking alcohol but also high in complex carbs.
Complex carbs slow digestion which is a great way to decrease effect of alcohol.
According to a study in 10 people, eating boiled sweet potatoes minimized spikes and crashes in blood sugar levels, which could potentially reduce hunger and prevent overeating caused by drinking.
15. Trail mix
Homemade trail mix is a great option for a healthy, hearty snack before you start drinking.
Nuts and seeds like almonds, walnuts, and pumpkin and flax seeds are all high in fiber and protein, which may help slow the emptying of your stomach to lessen the effects of alcohol.
Plus, they’re great sources of magnesium, potassium, and calcium, all of which can help prevent electrolyte disturbances caused by drinking.
Foods to avoid before drinking alcohol
Being mindful of what foods to avoid before drinking alcohol is just as important as selecting nutritious foods to eat before a night out.
In some cases, alcohol can trigger symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a condition characterized by heartburn, nausea, and belching.
If you have GERD or are prone to indigestion, you may want to also avoid other triggers prior to drinking, such as spicy foods, chocolate, carbonated beverages, and caffeine.
In addition, salty food like potato chips, pretzels, and crackers may cause bloating and fluid buildup, especially when paired with alcohol.
Finally, be sure to skip the refined carbs and sugary foods and drinks, such as white bread, pasta, sweets, and sodas.
These foods and beverages are not only digested more rapidly but can also cause blood sugar levels to fluctuate, increasing your risk of overeating later in the night.
Lastly, be sure to stay hydrated by sipping on plain water throughout the night to reduce the chances of hangover symptoms in the morning.
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