What foods help with alcohol recovery?

I often drink heavily and find it hard to refuse alcohol at gatherings. Are there any effective and convenient foods to help with alcohol recovery? (Tuan, 41, Hanoi)

Consuming alcohol, whether during year-end celebrations or at any other time, can lead to serious health problems such as stomach ulcers and liver cirrhosis. Beyond physical ailments, alcohol impairs behavior and cognition, increasing the risk of violence and traffic accidents. Therefore, limiting alcohol intake is crucial; avoid excessive and continuous drinking over several days.

Individual responses to alcohol and its elimination from the body vary. However, consuming fruits after drinking, particularly citrus varieties like oranges and tangerines, can aid in recovery. These fruits can be eaten directly or juiced to help cool the body, detoxify, and alleviate the effects of alcohol. A fresh lemon, either squeezed for its juice or sliced and eaten whole, is beneficial. Citrus fruits are rich in vitamin C, which helps reduce intoxication and promotes alertness. Additionally, since alcohol consumption often leads to dehydration, lemon and orange juice are effective thirst quenchers.

Ginger water or ginger tea can also assist in alcohol recovery. Ginger's natural warmth improves blood circulation, accelerating the breakdown of alcohol in the body. Adding a small spoonful of honey to hot ginger water can enhance absorption and further aid in alleviating intoxication.

Moreover, bread contains a significant amount of carbon, which acts as a filter in the body, absorbing alcohol and effectively preventing severe intoxication. Bread and other whole grains also provide vitamin B1, known for reducing hangover symptoms.

Plain porridge is an ideal food for those experiencing intoxication due to its ease of preparation, consumption, and digestion. Rice, the primary ingredient in porridge, also contains carbon, which can help absorb alcohol.

Centella asiatica can also be used for alcohol recovery. To prepare, combine 100 g of fresh Centella asiatica, two lemons, and one g of salt. Wash the fresh Centella asiatica, crush it finely, and extract the juice. Mix in the squeezed lemon juice and salt. Drink 150-300 ml per serving.

To avoid consuming industrial alcohol, refrain from purchasing unlabeled alcohol or products with unknown origins found on the market. When drinking, ensure you eat adequately and never drink on an empty stomach. Sip slowly to minimize irritation to the mouth and stomach lining, allowing the liver sufficient time to process the alcohol. Also, consume plenty of green vegetables.