Feeling Wonky

Feeling Wonky? The Science of Alcohol and the Art of Self-Care After a Night Out

Alcohol is as varied as the occasions it’s enjoyed. Whether you prefer a glass of red wine, a vodka martini, or a neat pour of brandy, each drink seems to create a unique experience. Many swear that different drinks affect them in different ways. Is there science behind this? Let’s explore how alcohol interacts with your body, why the morning after feels the way it does, and how to support your recovery with self-care and supplements like Feeling Wonky.

How Alcoholic Drinks Differ in Their Effects

Though the active ingredient in all alcoholic beverages is ethanol, other factors significantly influence how drinks affect you. Here are some key considerations:

Alcohol Content

The alcohol by volume (ABV) determines how quickly a drink takes effect. Spirits like vodka and whiskey have higher ABV than beer or wine, meaning they reach the bloodstream faster. This often leads to a quicker and sometimes harsher intoxication.

Congeners

Congeners are natural byproducts of fermentation and distillation that give alcoholic drinks their unique flavors. Darker drinks like whiskey, brandy, and red wine contain higher levels of congeners, which are linked to worse hangovers. Lighter options like vodka or gin have fewer congeners and are often perceived as “cleaner” in their effects.

Sugar and Additives

Sugary cocktails or sweet wines can cause blood sugar spikes followed by sharp crashes, leaving you feeling sluggish. Additives like artificial flavours or energy drinks used as mixers can amplify these effects.

Drinking Behaviour

The pace and context of drinking plays a role. A single glass of wine at dinner metabolises differently than several cocktails consumed quickly at a party.

Individual Metabolism

Genetics, hydration levels, and even your mood can influence how your body processes alcohol. Some people are naturally more sensitive to certain drinks.

Why Hangovers Happen?

A hangover is the body’s way of recovering from the stress alcohol imposes. Here’s what happens:

• Dehydration: Alcohol is a diuretic, causing the body to lose more water than it takes in. This leads to dry mouth, fatigue, and headaches.

• Nutrient Depletion: Essential vitamins and minerals, like B vitamins, magnesium, and potassium, are drained. These are critical for energy and brain function.

• Inflammation: Alcohol metabolism produces acetaldehyde, a toxic compound that causes nausea, foggy thinking, and other classic hangover symptoms.

• Sleep Disruption: Though alcohol may help you fall asleep, it disrupts restorative REM sleep, leaving you feeling unrested.

The Importance of Self-Care After Drinking

Enjoying a night out doesn’t mean you have to suffer the next day. Here’s how to care for your body:

Rehydrate

Drink water throughout the evening and before bed to counteract dehydration. Electrolyte solutions or coconut water can help replenish lost minerals.

Replenish Nutrients

Alcohol strips your body of vitamins and minerals. Supplements like Feeling Wonky can help restore balance.

Support Brain Function

Nootropics—substances that enhance mental clarity—can be a lifesaver for the morning after. They combat the brain fog and lethargy often associated with hangovers.

Rest and Nourish

A good breakfast rich in proteins, healthy fats, and complex carbs (think eggs, avocado, and whole-grain toast) can aid recovery. Prioritise rest to give your body time to heal.

How Feeling Wonky Can Help

We created Feeling Wonky to help you enjoy life without sacrificing your well-being. Our two-step supplement is designed to address the root causes of hangovers:

1. Before Bed: Take three capsules to replenish lost nutrients, promote calm, and support deep sleep.

2. In the Morning: Take two capsules for a burst of vitamins, a nootropic dose for mental clarity, and a slow-release energy boost to help you feel like yourself again.

The Bottom Line

Whether you’re sipping on wine, cocktails, or whiskey, it’s important to enjoy alcohol responsibly and prepare for recovery. By hydrating, resting, and replenishing with products like Feeling Wonky, you can make the most of your social experiences without dreading the morning after.

Cheers to balance and self-care!