Dealing with Food Hangovers
Indulging in excess food is a common occurrence during the holiday season, with an abundance of dishes rich in fat, salt, sugar, spice, and starch. Just like alcohol, overconsumption of such foods can lead to a “food hangover.” Symptoms of a food hangover include stomach pain, nausea, bloating, gas, and other digestive discomforts. While food typically digests within a few hours, the presence of fatty foods can slow down this process, resulting in lingering nausea, heartburn, and stomach issues that may persist throughout the night and into the next morning. Additionally, consuming salty foods can cause water retention the following day, while a high intake of sugar can leave an individual feeling groggy upon waking up.
Effects of Late Night Binges on Heart Health
Indulging in holiday parties and late night binges can have detrimental effects on your heart. The combination of consuming a large meal, alcohol, and caffeine often leads to acid reflux. Moreover, taking over-the-counter pain relievers to alleviate the next-day consequences of alcohol consumption can further aggravate the problem by irritating the esophagus. Late night overeating also puts excessive strain on the gastrointestinal system, which can ultimately impact the heart, leading to irregular heartbeats or palpitations.