The Science of Suffering

The Science of Suffering

Ever wondered why you feel like a truck hit you after a night out? It's not just a case of the hangxiety. There's a complex biological party going on inside your body, and it's not always a fun one.

Let's take a closer look at the science behind how your body breaks down alcohol and the different enzymes at play.

The First Line of Defence: Alcohol Dehydrogenase (ADH)

When you consume alcohol, it's rapidly absorbed into your bloodstream and transported to your liver. Here, alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH), the first line of defence, steps in to break down the ethanol into acetaldehyde, a toxic compound. Think of it as the body's first attempt to neutralise the enemy.

The Cleanup Crew: Aldehyde Dehydrogenase (ALDH)

Acetaldehyde, a toxic byproduct of alcohol metabolism, is the main culprit behind many of the unpleasant hangover symptoms like headaches, nausea, and fatigue. It can cause inflammation, disrupt neurotransmitter function, and lead to dehydration. Luckily, ALDH, the cleanup crew, steps in to break down acetaldehyde into a less harmful substance called acetate.

Once turned into acetate, your body can easily process and eliminate it. So, while acetaldehyde may be the villain of the story, your body has its own superhero enzyme team to save the day.

The Genetic Lottery

Genetic variations in the genes that code for ADH and ALDH can influence how people experience hangovers. Some people are lucky enough to have efficient enzymes, making them less susceptible to the dreaded hangover. Others, not so much!

The Nutritional Hangover: A Vitamin and Mineral Meltdown

Alcohol consumption can leave your body feeling depleted and rundown. It can interfere with the absorption and utilisation of essential vitamins and minerals, including:

  • Vitamin B Complex: These vitamins are crucial for energy metabolism and nerve function, but alcohol can party too hard with them.
  • Magnesium: This mineral is important for muscle function and energy production, but alcohol can deplete its levels.
  • Zinc: Zinc is essential for immune function and wound healing, but alcohol can impair its absorption.
  • Folate: This vitamin is crucial for cell growth and development, but alcohol can interfere with its metabolism.
  • Calcium: Alcohol can increase calcium excretion, which can lead to bone loss.
  • Potassium: Alcohol can disrupt potassium balance, affecting heart function and muscle health.

    • Hangover Solutions to the Rescue

    Feeling the effects of last night's shenanigans? Don't worry, we've got you covered with our hangover solutions on our site. These are specially designed to help you bounce back and feel like yourself again in no time. Always remember to pace yourself, drink responsibly and make sure you get your hands on our Essentials Kit! Your future self will thank you.

    Back to blog