Hangover tips from Brabant – how to survive Carnival!

Carnival in Brabant is great, but that hangover… well, that's less fun. So: 10 real Brabant hangover tips. Short, sweet, and no-nonsense. Alaaf!

1. Drink a glass of chocolate milk before you start drinking

It's not for the fun of it, but for your stomach. That chocolate milk creates a layer of fat in your stomach, which slows down the absorption of the alcohol. Less chance of vomiting!

2. Ginger and mint tea

Ginger is your best friend against nausea, and mint calms your stomach. A big mug in the evening or the next morning and you'll feel a bit better.

3. ORS

Yes, yes, that's the stuff for dehydration. Carnival = fluid loss. ORS replenishes your salts and sugars. Saves headaches and that faint feeling. Take it as soon as you get home after a night out. That way, you'll immediately replenish your fluids and salts. Did you forget? Then add one the next morning. No harm done.

4. Eat a banana (before or after going out)

Bananas are full of potassium. You lose that through alcohol. One banana and your body will be a bit happier.

5. When you get home: water + vitamin effervescent tablet + 2 paracetamol

First, a large glass of water with one of those effervescent tablets. Then two paracetamols (no ibuprofen with alcohol, mind you!). Chances are you'll be ready to go again the next day.

6. Make sure you have a good foundation

Don't start on an empty stomach; that's asking for trouble. Eat something substantial like kale or a good mashed potato. That'll keep you going longer.

7. Eggs and bacon in the morning

Fat and protein help your body recover. And it's just plain delicious. Add a little salt and you'll feel visibly better in no time.

8. Take a long walk outside.

Fresh air works wonders. Walk or cycle to the pub if you can. A little exercise before, during, or after the party helps your body flush out toxins.

9. Drink water in between (alternating).

Have a drink after every beer. Yes, it sounds boring. But you'll be less drunk and less hungover. We call that smart partying.

10. Go to bed on time (even if it's just an extra hour).

Sleep is the real hero. Your body recovers while you're snoring. Even during Carnival, you can be sensible sometimes.

So, now you're all set for four days of going all out in Kruikenstad, Oeteldonk, or Lampegat. But remember: drink in moderation... or at least sensibly.

Alaaf and bye!