The dreaded hangover after an evening of drinking at your favorite nightlife spot can put a damper on your day. While they eventually fade, hangovers can leave you feeling sluggish, cause headaches, and make you sick to the stomach. No one likes to face this day-long discomfort. Avoiding alcohol completely is the only true way to safely avoid hangovers, but there are manageable steps to decreasing the likelihood. Keep the following in mind.

3 Tips to Prevent Hangovers

1. Drink Water

Dehydration is a major contributor to hangovers and occurs because alcohol is a natural diuretic. As you enjoy your drink, water leaves your body, and you’ll need to replace it. While at your go-to bar, make sure to drink plenty of water so you stay hydrated. Familiarize yourself with symptoms of dehydration, including headaches, fatigue, and dry mouth. As a rule of thumb, drink one glass of water for every alcoholic drink you consume, and drink a large glass right before going to bed.

2. Eat Before Drinking

A full stomach can slow down how quickly your body absorbs alcohol, so enjoy a large meal before exploring the local nightlife. Food may keep your blood alcohol concentration lower, further combating the effects of a hangover. A hangover can also be related to low blood sugar levels, so eat a large breakfast if you’re feeling a little under the weather in the morning. You can achieve the same results by eating a large meal right before going to bed.

3. Avoid Congeners

Congeners are a toxic byproduct of sugar-fermenting yeasts in alcohol. While they don’t serve a serious danger, they can contribute to hangovers. Watch out for drinks high in congeners, including bourbon, tequila, and cognac. Go for beverages free of congeners, like rum, gin, and vodka.

If you’re looking for a new nightlife spot in St. Petersburg, FL, stop by the Crafty Squirrel. This local favorite carries a wide variety of drinks and delicious food, including artisan pizzas. It’s perfect for a night out or watching your favorite sports on one of their 16 big-screen TVs. Stop by for happy hour or to enjoy a dinner with friends. You can explore their menu online and call (727) 898-4888 to book a reservation. For news and updates, connect with them on Facebook.