Hangovers can be a real pain, leaving you feeling fatigued, dehydrated, and nauseous. While there is no one-size-fits-all cure for a hangover, a cup of coffee can be a helpful remedy for many people. Coffee contains caffeine, which can help combat fatigue and boost energy levels. Additionally, coffee can stimulate the production of certain enzymes in the liver, which can help the body process and eliminate toxins more quickly. However, not all coffee drinks are created equal when it comes to easing the symptoms of a hangover. In this article, we will go over our three top choices for the best coffee for a hangover and why they are effective.
What is The Best Coffee for Hangovers?
Espresso is generally the best coffee for hangovers due to its high caffeine content and energy-boosting properties. It has all the power of a coffee drink in a tiny mouthful, which is useful if you don’t want to consume a large cup of coffee after a heavy night.
Also, cold brew coffee’s lower acidity and smoother taste can help reduce stomach upset. Cappuccino is also an excellent option, as it combines the caffeine content of espresso with the soothing properties of milk.
However, it’s important to also consider factors like hydration and food choices when choosing a coffee for a hangover. Other drinks and remedies like water, sports drinks, and herbal teas may also be helpful in easing hangover symptoms.
Let’s have at the 3 best coffees for hangovers in more detail:
Espresso
Espresso is an ideal coffee for a hangover because of its strong and concentrated nature. It packs a powerful punch of caffeine that can quickly help you feel more awake and alert, combatting the sluggishness and grogginess that often accompanies a hangover. In fact, a single shot of espresso contains approximately 63mg of caffeine, which is significantly higher than the 12mg in a regular cup of coffee. This means that espresso can provide a more immediate and intense energy boost.
One of the benefits of consuming an espresso shot is that the smaller serving size makes it easier to regulate your caffeine intake. Overconsumption of caffeine can lead to jitters and anxiety, which can worsen the symptoms of a hangover. By drinking espresso, you can avoid the pitfalls of too much caffeine and still get the boost you need.
To make a perfect shot of espresso, it’s crucial to use fresh, high-quality coffee beans and a high-pressure espresso machine. The high-pressure forces hot water through the tightly packed coffee grounds, producing a small and concentrated shot of coffee. This process extracts more caffeine and flavor than other brewing methods, making espresso a strong and effective choice for a hangover cure.
Furthermore, espresso can also help with digestive issues that may arise from a night of heavy drinking. The caffeine in espresso stimulates the digestive system, promoting the movement of food through the intestines and reducing nausea and other gastrointestinal symptoms. Consuming an espresso shot after a meal can also help stimulate the production of gastric acids, aiding in digestion and reducing discomfort.
Cold Brew Coffee
Cold brew coffee is brewed with cold water over a longer period of time, usually between 12 and 24 hours, which results in a smoother and less acidic taste compared to traditional hot brewed coffee. This method of brewing also extracts more caffeine from the coffee grounds, making it a great option for those looking for a caffeine boost to help with their hangover.
One of the benefits of cold brew coffee for a hangover is its lower acidity, which can help reduce the risk of stomach upset and acid reflux. This is particularly important as hangovers can often lead to digestive issues such as nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain. The smoother taste of cold brew coffee can also be more appealing to those who experience sensitivity to bitter flavors when they’re feeling unwell.
To prepare cold brew coffee, you can use a specialized cold brew coffee maker, which typically involves steeping coarsely ground coffee beans in cold water for several hours. However, making cold brew coffee at home is also easy with a few simple tools. All you need is a mason jar or French press, coffee grounds, and cold water. Simply mix the coffee grounds and water in the jar or press, let it sit in the fridge for at least 12 hours, and then strain the coffee into a glass. You can also add ice and milk or cream to taste.
Cappuccino
In addition to its combination of caffeine and milk, cappuccino also has a lower caffeine content compared to other coffee drinks like drip coffee or espresso shots. This can be beneficial for those who want to limit their caffeine intake but still need a pick-me-up to combat the effects of a hangover.
Another advantage of cappuccino is that it’s a versatile drink that can be enjoyed in different ways. For example, you can add flavors like vanilla or caramel syrup to your cappuccino to make it sweeter and more enjoyable. You can also experiment with different types of milk, such as almond or oat milk, for a dairy-free alternative.
To maximize the effectiveness of cappuccino in curing a hangover, it’s best to enjoy it with a small breakfast or snack. This can help regulate blood sugar levels and provide energy to your body. Additionally, it’s important to stay hydrated by drinking water or other non-alcoholic beverages throughout the day.
Considerations
When choosing a coffee for a hangover, there are other factors to consider besides just the type of coffee itself. One of the most critical considerations is hydration. Alcohol is a diuretic, which means it increases urine production and can lead to dehydration. Drinking water and other hydrating fluids alongside coffee can help combat dehydration and reduce symptoms such as headaches and fatigue.
Another consideration is food choices. Eating a nutritious breakfast or meal can help restore essential nutrients and electrolytes lost during alcohol consumption. Consuming high-protein foods can also help stabilize blood sugar levels and reduce feelings of nausea.
In addition to coffee, there are other drinks or remedies that can help with a hangover. Drinking herbal tea such as ginger or peppermint tea can help soothe an upset stomach, while sports drinks or electrolyte-infused water can help replenish lost electrolytes. Consuming foods or supplements high in vitamin C can also help reduce inflammation and support liver function.
The Final Sip
Ultimately, the best coffee for hangovers may vary from person to person, depending on individual preferences and the severity of the hangover. There is no ‘cure’ for hangovers and the effects of coffee will wear off, so be sure to follow other healthy practices in alleviating hangovers. Experimenting with different drinks and remedies can help you find the best approach for your hangover needs.
