The best foods to eat before drinking alcohol

You can't deny that booze can do a number on your body, especially when you have a few too many. But by taking a few precautions before the alcohol starts to flow, you can help minimize the damage. In fact, picking the right foods before you indulge in an alcoholic beverage or two can help control hunger, balance electrolytes, and decrease some of the adverse effects associated with alcohol.

Salmon

One of the best sources of omega-3 fatty acids, salmon is associated with a multitude of health benefits.

Some researchers suggest that omega-3 fatty acids help reduce some of the harmful effects of alcohol, including inflammation in the brain. Also, salmon is high in protein, which may help slow the absorption of alcohol.

Eggs

Highly nutritious and filling, eating protein-rich foods like eggs before drinking booze can help slow the emptying of your stomach and delay alcohol absorption.

Also, protein is the most filling macronutrient, keeping you fuller for longer. This can reduce your risk of alcohol-induced food binges later in the night.

Bananas

Packed with fiber, bananas are an excellent pre-drinking choice, as they help slow alcohol absorption into your bloodstream.

Plus, they’re high in potassium, which may prevent electrolyte imbalances associated with drinking alcohol.

Oats

Oats are a great source of fiber and protein, which support feelings of fullness and ease the effects of alcohol.

Packed with magnesium, selenium, and iron, research has shown that oats could benefit liver health by improving function.

Greek yogurt 

Containing a good balance of protein, fat, and carbs, unsweetened Greek yogurt is one of the best foods you can eat before a night of drinking.

Greek yogurt also helps keep you full all night long to prevent hunger and cravings fueled by alcohol.

Chia pudding

Chia seeds are a great source of fiber and protein, as well as micronutrients like manganese, magnesium, phosphorus, and calcium.

Plus, chia seeds are rich in antioxidants, which may help prevent cell damage and protect your liver.

Sweet potatoes

Sweet potatoes aren't only a great source of potassium to help balance electrolyte levels, but they're also high in complex carbs.

Complex carbs are composed of larger molecules that take longer to break down, which can be beneficial for reducing the effects of alcohol.

Berries

Berries like strawberries, blackberries, and blueberries are loaded with antioxidants and essential nutrients, including fiber, manganese, and vitamin C.

Berries are also rich in water, helping you stay hydrated, which minimizes the effects of alcohol and dehydration.

Asparagus

Full of vitamins and minerals, studies have found that asparagus extract increases the activity of two enzymes that protect liver cells against damage.

Asparagus also contains many antioxidants that may be able to repair damage caused by alcohol.

Avocado

Rich in healthy monounsaturated fats, avocados are great before drinking alcohol. That's because fat takes longer to digest than protein or carbs, resulting in slowing the absorption of alcohol into your bloodstream.

Also, avocados contain potassium, an important electrolyte that’s often diminished with heavy alcohol consumption.

Grapefruit

Grapefruit delivers a hearty dose of fiber, vitamin C, and vitamin A. Plus, it also contains naringenin and naringin, two antioxidant compounds that have been shown to prevent liver damage.

Also, a study on animals found that naringin could decrease alcohol-induced fat buildup and injury to the liver.

Quinoa

Quinoa is a whole grain high in protein, fiber, and a number of essential micronutrients.

It’s particularly high in magnesium and potassium, which can help minimize electrolyte imbalances caused by alcohol consumption.

Melon

Honeydew, watermelon, and cantaloupe are all rich in water and can help keep you hydrated while drinking.

These fruits are also rich in important electrolytes, which can quickly diminish with excessive alcohol consumption.

Beets

A superstar ingredient, an animal study showed that beetroot juice exhibited a protective effect on liver cells and decreased cell damage.

Further research found that beetroot juice decreased alcohol-induced liver damage in rats.

Trail mix

Homemade trail mix is a great option for a healthy snack before you start drinking. Include nuts and seeds, like almonds, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, and flax seeds. They're all high in fiber and protein, which may help lessen the effects of alcohol.

Plus, they’re great sources of magnesium, potassium, and calcium, which can all help prevent electrolyte disturbances.


Post a Comment

0 Comments

Advertisement