How does it work?
'If you can avoid drinking alcohol on an empty stomach, that will make a huge difference to the potential severity of your hangover,' says nutritional therapist Jackie Lynch (www.well-well-well.co.uk). 'Fat takes longer to digest in the stomach - so eating "healthy" fats such as oily fish, avocado or raw nuts before you start drinking can slow the release of alcohol into the small intestine, which is where it will mostly be absorbed. This gives the liver the chance to manage the detox process more efficiently.'

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How does it work?
Cysteine, the amino acid found in eggs, counteracts the poisonous effects of acetaldehyde - the chemical produced by the body as it metabolises alcohol, and the baddie behind booze-induced headaches and nausea. What's more, egg protein can also help you stay awake and alert during the day after a big night out, according to new research from Cambridge University. It works by stimulating brain cells known as orexin-hypocretin neurons, which in turn promote wakefulness. So get scrambling!

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How does it work?
'Milk thistle contains an active ingredient called silymarin, which protects the liver from alcohol damage and premature ageing by helping to regenerate cells,' says nutritionist Mary Strugar. Try Milk Thistle Capsules, £29.99 for 100 capsules, from Holland & Barrett (www.hollandandbarrett.com). Alternatively, Fushi Milk Thistle & Dandelion Herbal Drink can be mixed with juice or hot water to support the body's elimination process and stimulate digestion. £19.50 for 230ml, Fushi (www.fushi.co.uk).

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How does it work?
Glutamine is a key nutrient that's required to rid the body of alcohol toxins. It helps maintain a healthy gut and support immune function, plus it can curb those hangover-induced sugar and carb cravings. 'When you drink a lot of alcohol, you deplete your glutamine store,' explains nutrition consultant Lorraine Perretta. 'So when you wake up in the early hours, your body is looking for more glutamine to restore the balance.' Try Advanced Nutrition Programme Glutamine Powder, £17, TreatYourSkin.com. Take 1tsp with water before drinking, then again at bedtime.

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Hangovers: the facts
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How does it work?
Betacyanin - the pigment that gives beetroot its colour - is an antioxidant, which helps speed up the detox process in the liver. Want another benefit? The dietary nitrate found in beetroot juice is also good for boosting cardio health. You don't have to push your morning-after capabilities to the limit by attempting to juice your own beetroot: try BeetActive Concentrate, £5.99, from health food stores nationwide. You can dilute it with water, add it to juice or drizzle it over your lunchtime salad.

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How does it work?
OK, it's not going to stop you feeling sick and sorry for yourself - but using eye drops can at least make you less groggy and tired-looking throughout the day. Want to try a brand new product? Optrex ActiMist 2in1 Eye Spray for Tired and Uncomfortable Eyes contains liposome particles, which work to repair and replenish the eyes' natural moisture barrier, while Pro Vitamin B5 moisturises the eyelids and surrounding delicate skin. Price £15.99, from chemists nationwide.

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Hangovers: the facts
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How does it work?
'Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that supports the detox pathways in the liver,' explains Jackie Lynch. 'So taking 1000mg of vitamin C before you go to bed can help the liver deal more effectively with the toxins generated by the alcohol you've drunk, reducing your chances of a debilitating hangover the following day.' For extra immunity-boosting action, try Boots Pharmaceuticals Vitamin C & Zinc, £3.59 for 20 effervescent tablets, Boots stores nationwide (www.boots.com).

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How does it work? 'Probiotic bacteria help make short chain fatty acids, which act like fuel for the liver - giving it the energy to work and detoxify,' says nutritionist Petronella Ravenshear. 'They also regulate acidity so get rid of the feeling of nausea, and work as an anti-inflammatory to settle an upset tummy.' Try Symprove -  a water-based probiotic drink that passes straight through to the small intestine. Price £21.95 for 500ml, from Symprove.com and selected healthcare retailers nationwide.

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How does it work?
No, we're not suggesting you nip down to the beach and drink any old seawater. (That said, the fresh air won't do you any harm.) However, you could give Thalgo L'Oceane a try: each vial contains 100% pure living seawater, which is rich in vital minerals to help the body rehydrate and recharge itself. Take one or two undiluted vials before food - and for best results, try to keep the contents in your mouth for a few seconds before swallowing. Price £24.20 for 20 vials, from Thalgo (www.thalgo.com).

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Hangovers: the facts
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How does it work?
Hangover symptoms are partly caused by dehydration. The solution - as if you hadn't guessed already - is to drink plenty of water, both during and after your night out. Alternate between water and alcohol throughout the evening and you'll stay hydrated, drink less booze - and even save money if you stick to water when it's your round! But what about alcohol choices? 'Dark spirits and red wine tend to cause worse hangover effects than white wine and clear drinks due to the chemical enhancers they contain,' advises Boots pharmacist Angela Chalmers.

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Hangovers: the facts
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