Stomach discomfort after drinking alcohol is a common experience. Understanding the underlying causes and implementing specific strategies can help alleviate symptoms and prevent future upset.
Why Alcohol Affects the Stomach
Alcohol directly irritates the stomach lining, potentially leading to inflammation known as gastritis. This irritation can manifest as a gnawing or burning pain, indigestion, nausea, or vomiting. Alcohol can also compromise the stomach’s protective mucosal barrier, making it more susceptible to damage.
Alcohol also influences stomach acid production. Some evidence suggests alcoholic beverages can increase stomach acid, which further irritates the stomach lining and can contribute to acid reflux or heartburn. This heightened acidity, combined with irritation, can worsen discomfort.
The rate at which the stomach empties its contents can also be affected by alcohol. Beverages with high alcohol concentrations may slow gastric emptying, leading to feelings of fullness. Conversely, lower alcohol concentrations might accelerate gastric emptying in some cases. Additionally, alcohol acts as a diuretic, causing the body to lose fluids and electrolytes through increased urination. This dehydration can exacerbate stomach upset.
Immediate Relief Strategies
Prioritizing hydration is important when experiencing stomach upset after drinking. Replenishing fluids and electrolytes lost due to alcohol’s diuretic effect is important for recovery. Water, clear broths, and electrolyte-enhanced beverages can help restore the body’s fluid balance.
Consuming gentle, bland foods can help settle the stomach without further irritation. Options such as toast, plain crackers, bananas, rice, and applesauce, often referred to as the “BRAT” diet, are easily digestible and provide some carbohydrates. Ginger, whether in tea or as a supplement, has also been found to reduce nausea.
Avoiding certain foods can prevent additional stomach irritation. Fatty, spicy, or highly acidic foods, as well as those high in sugar, can worsen symptoms and should be avoided. Caffeine and nicotine can also further irritate a sensitive stomach lining.
Over-the-counter remedies like antacids can neutralize excess stomach acid, providing temporary relief from heartburn and indigestion. Bismuth subsalicylate can also help manage upset stomach and related symptoms. It is advisable to consult a doctor or pharmacist before using these medications, especially if symptoms persist.
Rest and elevating the head can also provide comfort. Lying flat might worsen acid reflux, so maintaining an elevated position can be beneficial. It is important to avoid further alcohol consumption, as this will only prolong irritation and delay recovery. Seek medical attention immediately if symptoms include severe, persistent pain, vomiting blood, black or bloody stools, a high fever, or yellowing of the skin or eyes, as these could indicate more serious conditions like acute pancreatitis or stomach ulcers.
Preventing Future Discomfort
Eating a meal before and during alcohol consumption can reduce stomach irritation. Foods rich in protein, fiber, and healthy fats, such as eggs, oats, bananas, salmon, and Greek yogurt, can help slow alcohol absorption and protect the stomach lining.
Pacing yourself and moderating alcohol intake allows the body more time to process the alcohol, minimizing its irritant effects on the stomach. Alternating alcoholic drinks with water or other non-alcoholic beverages helps maintain hydration and dilutes the alcohol’s impact.
Choosing lower-irritant drinks can also make a difference for a sensitive stomach. Clear spirits like vodka, gin, and tequila tend to be less irritating than darker liquors or highly carbonated, sugary, or very acidic mixers.