Fatty and Sugary Foods Paired With Alcohol Linked to Worse Hangovers and Health Risks, Doctors Warn

As alcohol becomes a more common feature at social gatherings across the United States, doctors are raising concerns about the foods people often pair with their drinks. Health professionals say that what is eaten alongside beer, wine, or whisky can have a significant impact on how the body processes alcohol and recovers afterward.

Doctors point out that the first mistake many people make is reaching for heavy, oily, or fried snacks as soon as they start drinking. Alcohol already slows down digestion, and when combined with fatty foods, it puts extra pressure on the stomach and liver. The liver is responsible for breaking down both fat and alcohol, so consuming both at once forces it to work harder. This can lead to increased acidity in the stomach, heartburn, bloating, and a general feeling of discomfort that many people dismiss as a normal part of drinking.

Another common issue arises when people eat sweets after drinking alcohol. Alcohol contains sugar, and adding desserts like pastries or chocolates can cause blood sugar levels to spike quickly. Nutritionists warn that this sudden increase in blood sugar puts stress on the pancreas and can make hangovers worse. The combination of high sugar and alcohol makes it harder for the body to maintain balance, leading to more severe symptoms such as fatigue, nausea, and dehydration the next day.

A trend among younger drinkers is to consume caffeinated beverages like coffee or energy drinks after drinking alcohol in an attempt to stay awake or feel more alert. Doctors caution that caffeine can worsen dehydration caused by alcohol. While caffeine may temporarily mask feelings of tiredness or intoxication, it does not reduce the effects of alcohol on the body. This false sense of alertness can lead people to drink more than they should, increasing health risks. Caffeine also disrupts sleep patterns and can cause restlessness, making recovery from a night of drinking even more difficult.

Despite these risks, experts say there are better choices for those who want to minimize the negative effects of alcohol. Drinking water or coconut water helps replace fluids lost through dehydration. Eating light fruits such as apples, grapes, or bananas provides essential minerals without putting extra strain on digestion. Warm soups or simply cooked vegetables are also recommended because they are easy on the stomach and help support recovery.

Doctors emphasize that being mindful about food choices while drinking can make a significant difference in how the body handles alcohol. They encourage people to avoid heavy, sugary, or caffeinated foods and drinks when consuming alcohol and instead opt for lighter options that support hydration and digestion. As social habits continue to evolve and alcohol remains a staple at many gatherings, understanding these interactions is becoming increasingly important for maintaining good health.