Is it true that taking B vitamins can help “cure” a hangover?

Ask the RD: Answer: Our bodies definitely pay the price after drinking too much alcohol, and the sobering fact is that there is no real cure for a hangover. While B vitamins are essential for the metabolism of food and normal functioning of the nervous system, there is no good scientific evidence to suggest that popping a vitamin is an effective remedy for a hangover.

My best advice is to avoid hangovers altogether by limiting alcohol consumption to no more than two drinks in one evening; it is also wise to drink water or another nonalcoholic beverage in between drinks and to eat food before you imbibe, in order to slow the absorption of alcohol. Before going to bed, remember to drink a glass of water to help prevent dehydration and (unless contraindicated) take a small dose of aspirin to reduce the severity of hangover symptoms.

If you do overimbibe, my recommendations would be similar to my standard postworkout advice: replenish your electrolyte levels and refuel with a carbohydrate-rich snack or meal.

You can pose your own question to our contributing editor Jennie McCary, MS, RD, LD, a registered dietitian and wellness manager for Albuquerque Public School District. She is president of New Mexico’s Dietetic Association and is New Mexico’s 2009 Outstanding Dietitian of the Year. Please send your questions, along with your name and city/state/country, to us at content@ideafit.com.