Avoiding and Curing a Hangover

You awake in the morning (or afternoon) after an evening of over-indulgence, feeling as if you've been run over by a Mack truck. Your head is pounding; your mouth feels as if it's the Sahara Desert, and standing up is usually more than you can do. If you're lucky, that is. Sometimes you feel even worse and find yourself "assuming the position," while uttering such words as "I'll never drink again!" or "God, please take me now!" Is there any way to avoid such an evil feeling? The best way, of course, is to not drink at all - but if you must, this column may be for you. 

One of the better ways to avoid a hangover is to take a few pre-emptive measures. Before going out for a night on the town, eat a good meal. Eating before drinking helps to slow the alcohol's ability to be absorbed into your bloodstream. This is a good thing. Some of the best foods to consume are those heavy in fat and carbohydrates, such as a large cheeseburger with a side of fries. Adding a milk shake to the meal is a good idea, too, because sugar is another food that will help ward off the awful feeling. Another good choice is pizza, and no matter where you find yourself on spring break, rest assured there will be a Wendy's or a pizza joint nearby. So get going!