Hangovers are caused by many things: the acetaldehyde and acetic acid left from alcohol conversion, the lack of glucose to cells (even in the brain) since the liver was busy converting alcohol, the deficiency of vitamins and minerals either used up by alcohol conversion or flushed from the system by alcohol’s effects, dehydration from alcohol’s diuretic properties, and unhappy stomach irritation from the overabundance of alcohol .

While researchers point out there is no proven hangover cure, there are plenty of supposed “folk” remedies, both old and new. We’ll try to provide one a week until we run out.

6) Eat a banana! Bananas are high in potassium and other minerals, which helps lower blood pressure (oh, my head!). They also have natural antacid properties, and reduce stomach irritation, which means they can have a soothing effect on an unhappy tummy. Add to this that they are moist, and raise your blood sugar, and you have a pretty pleasing anti-hangover combination. Many sites recommend various types of banana milkshakes or banana sandwiches, but just eating the fruit alone is sufficient!