If you’ve ever woken up after a night of fun and felt like your head was pounding, your mouth was dry, and your energy was at zero, you know what a hangover feels like. And let’s be honest: when that happens, the first thing you’re looking for is a quick fix. Two drinks often come to mind: tea or coffee. But which one is really better for shaking off that rough hangover?

What Causes Hangovers?

Before diving into the tea vs. coffee debate, let’s take a quick look at what’s happening in your body when you have a hangover. Most of it boils down to dehydration (thanks, alcohol!) and an upset stomach. Plus, all that partying can cause headaches, low energy, and general misery.

Why Some People Reach for Coffee

Coffee is a go-to for many people when they need a pick-me-up, and it’s no surprise that it’s often the first thing people think of when dealing with a hangover. Here’s why coffee might help:

• Energy boost: Coffee gives you a hit of caffeine, which can help wake you up when you’re dragging.
• Headache relief: Caffeine can reduce headaches because it narrows blood vessels, easing pain.

But here’s the catch: coffee can also make things worse. It’s a diuretic, which means it makes you pee more, and that can dehydrate you even more—definitely not what you need when you’re already dried out from drinking. Plus, it might make you jittery or anxious, which isn’t fun when you’re already feeling rough.

Why Tea Might Be a Better Choice

Tea, on the other hand, can be a gentler option. Here’s why:

• Hydration: Tea has less caffeine than coffee, so it won’t dry you out as much. Plus, if you go for herbal tea (like ginger or peppermint), you’re not adding any caffeine, which helps with hydration.
• Soothing for your stomach: Some teas, like ginger or peppermint, are great for calming an upset stomach. If your hangover includes nausea, tea might be your best friend.
• Antioxidants: Teas like green or black tea are full of antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation, which might make you feel a bit better overall.

So, Which One Should You Choose?

When it comes down to it, both tea and coffee have their perks, but tea might come out on top for a hangover. Why? Because staying hydrated is one of the best things you can do to feel better, tea is an excellent choice. Herbal teas, in particular, can be calming and easier on your stomach if you’re feeling queasy.

That said, if you’re someone who really needs caffeine to function in the morning, a small cup of coffee might be okay. Just be sure to drink plenty of water along with it to avoid getting even more dehydrated.

Why Papaya Juice is the Best Juice for Hangovers

Other Hangover Helpers

While tea and coffee can help, you can try a few other things to speed up your recovery and feel better faster. Here are some simple, effective remedies to add to your hangover toolbox:

Try some ginger: Ginger tea or even chewing on a small piece of ginger can help with nausea and upset stomachs.

Drink plenty of water: Staying hydrated is key to recovering from a hangover. Drink a big glass of water when you wake up, and keep sipping throughout the day.

Replenish electrolytes: Drinks like coconut water, sports drinks, or even electrolyte tablets mixed in water can help balance out what your body has lost from alcohol.

Eat a light, healthy breakfast: Try bland foods like toast, bananas, or eggs. These are gentle on your stomach and can give you a boost of energy without making nausea worse.

Papaya juice: Packed with vitamins and enzymes, papaya juice can help soothe an upset stomach and support digestion, which can be especially helpful if you’re feeling queasy.

Take a nap: Resting gives your body time to recover. Even a short nap can make a big difference.

Take a pain reliever (if needed): If your headache is unbearable, an over-the-counter pain reliever like ibuprofen can help. Just make sure to follow the directions and avoid taking it on an empty stomach.

Now It’s Your Turn

Whether you’re team tea or team coffee, the best hangover remedy is the one that works for you. Tea might be the gentler, hydrating option, while coffee can offer a quick energy boost if you’re feeling drained. But don’t forget, staying hydrated and taking care of your body with the right foods and rest can make all the difference.

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Now it’s your turn! Do you prefer tea, coffee, or something completely different after a night out? Share your favorite hangover cures in the comments or on the Keep It Tight Sisters Page.

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