Although the cause of a hangover is not fully known, there are a lot of different theories behind why we get them. But one thing we do know that they happen – and they can be brutal.

The only sure-fire way of avoiding a hangover is to not drink. But let’s be honest that’s not likely to happen anytime soon.

Here are the different methods of helping prevent and cure hangovers.

Drink Water

Dehydration could be one of the factors that make you have a hangover. The best way to stop a hangover is to prevent it in the first place. Drink plenty of water between drinks to help prevent feeling bad the next day.

If you forget or still feel bad the next day, don’t worry! You can drink water when you wake up and this could help improve symptoms.

Drink Other Fluids

As well as water, it’s important to drink other fluids – ones that are full of electrolytes. Drink things such as sports drinks, coconut water or fizzy juice that had caffeine in it.

Grease Up

Eat greasy food either before or after going out (or both!)

If you eat greasy food before going out it will help line your stomach and the grease will slow down the absorption of alcohol.

Consume Sugar Whilst Drinking

Studies have shown that fructose (found in sugar) can actually speed up your metabolism for alcohol, which will help reduce your risk of alcohol.

Fill Up the Morning After

Eat a massive breakfast, even if you feel sick try and eat. Food is also full of electrolytes and will help replenish your dehydrated system. Just watch out what you eat because when you’re hungover your body needs food that is easy to digest. Some people believe that eating burnt toast will help with a hangover as the charred carbon may filter out impurities in the body, although there is no energy to back this up.

Eat Ginger

Eating ginger is known to reduce nausea and vomiting, and this method had been used for centuries. Try eating a bit of crystallised ginger to feel a little better.

Watch Out for Prickly Pear Cactus

The use of prickly pear cactus for medicinal purposes is still being tested. But a study has shown that consuming 1,600 IU of prickly pear extract 5 hours before drinking to reduce the risk of severe hangover by 50%.

Go Back to Bed

Taking a long nap can allow your body to start healing itself. Even though hangovers aren’t caused by lack of sleep, it can help.