Eating fruits after consuming alcohol, especially citrus varieties like oranges and tangerines, whether eaten directly or juiced, can effectively cool the body, detoxify, and aid in sobering up.
Oranges, tangerines, and pomelos are fruits rich in water with diuretic properties. Consuming them directly or as juice can dilute alcohol concentration in the body, facilitating faster elimination. This is why many experts recommend increased water intake for alcohol detoxification.
Alcohol concentration in the blood is primarily eliminated through two main pathways: breath and urine. Therefore, ensuring adequate hydration or consuming diuretic foods helps reduce alcohol levels quickly.
Oranges and tangerines also contain abundant vitamin C, which helps quench thirst, boost the immune system, and support the body's recovery after drinking. They can be prepared as refreshing juices to cool the body, increase energy, and promote alertness and overall well-being.
Significantly, oranges and tangerines contain organic acids that can combine with ethanol in alcohol, forming esters, thereby effectively assisting in alcohol detoxification. To use them, simply juice or cut three to five fresh oranges or tangerines for the intoxicated person to drink or eat directly. If possible, add a small amount of orange or tangerine peel when juicing to enhance the detoxification effect.
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Simply juice or cut three to five oranges for the intoxicated person to drink or eat directly to help sober up. Photo: Anh Chi |
Simply juice or cut three to five oranges for the intoxicated person to drink or eat directly to help sober up. Photo: Anh Chi
In traditional medicine, dried tangerine peel, known as "tran bi," is also used as an alcohol detoxification remedy. One method involves taking 30 grams of fragrant, stir-fried tangerine peel, crushing it, and combining it with two deseeded, finely chopped sour plums. This mixture is then simmered with 360 ml of water over low heat for 30 minutes. After straining, the liquid is given to the intoxicated person. Adding a small amount of ginger to this mixture can further enhance its effectiveness in sobering up.
When consuming alcohol, it is advisable to eat a full meal beforehand to avoid an empty stomach. Drink slowly to reduce irritation to the mouth and stomach lining, allowing the liver sufficient time to metabolize the alcohol. Additionally, consume plenty of green vegetables.
The most effective way to quickly reduce blood alcohol concentration is to drink less alcohol. It is crucial to never mix alcohol with energy drinks or soft drinks, or consume beer and spirits simultaneously. Such practices accelerate alcohol absorption, and energy drinks, in particular, can induce a false sense of alertness, posing significant health risks.
Doctor Huynh Tan Vu
University Medical Center Ho Chi Minh City - Campus 3
