Tums tablets are a common solution for stomach discomfort. Alcohol, on the other hand, can inflame the stomach and intestines, resulting in stomach issues (via Medical News Today). But is it safe to use Tums while consuming alcohol, or is there a hidden reason to avoid it?
According to Healthline, taking Tums before, after, or while drinking is generally safe and should not cause issues. However, that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s advisable. The primary ingredient in Tums, calcium carbonate, does not negatively interact with alcohol. Yet, as per Tums’ parent company, GlaxoSmithKline, alcohol relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter, leading to acid reflux and heartburn, potentially negating the positive effects of Tums. The company advises that Tums is not intended to prevent heartburn caused by alcohol.
Additionally, some individuals take anti-inflammatory medication, such as ibuprofen or naproxen, to counteract hangover headaches. However, these drugs can irritate the stomach lining, potentially causing further stomach upset.
What are Tums best used for?
Tums are effective because they have a high pH value, which neutralizes stomach acid’s low pH. They are commonly used to relieve heartburn or acid reflux, pain from a stomach ulcer, and stomach discomfort. According to the National Health Service, antacids like Tums only alleviate symptoms and not the root cause of pain. Thus, they should be used short-term, and a doctor should be consulted if regular use becomes necessary.
There are various types of antacids, including magnesium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, and calcium carbonate. Tums, made of calcium carbonate, are sometimes used as a calcium supplement. The company’s website states that Tums contain the highest amount of elemental calcium among the different forms available. Nonetheless, it’s essential to consult your doctor before adding any new supplement, including Tums for calcium, to your routine.
Tums can relieve hangover symptoms
Tums might be helpful in combating hangover symptoms after a night of drinking. As antacids, they neutralize stomach upset and stomach acid, potentially reducing side effects of alcohol consumption like heartburn, indigestion, and nausea (via MedicalNewsToday). It’s also crucial to drink plenty of water since alcohol increases urination, leading to fluid loss and increased dehydration risk, which can worsen hangover discomfort.
If you decide to use Tums for hangover recovery, ensure you also consume ample fluids to aid in rehydration. While Tums are known to help with heartburn, experts at Healthline note that taking Tums to prevent heartburn before drinking may reduce the medication’s effectiveness, as alcohol can significantly exacerbate indigestion symptoms.
Rather than just taking Tums after drinking, focus on replenishing electrolytes
You may have heard of electrolytes, but what are they exactly? According to Cedars-Sinai, electrolytes are vital minerals like potassium, sodium, and calcium. They are essential for several bodily functions, including hydration, pH balance, and muscle contraction regulation. Electrolytes are lost through fluids such as urine, sweat, diarrhea, and vomit. Since these are common during hangovers, especially after consuming significant alcohol, replenishing electrolytes is crucial.
Healthline states that all antacids contain electrolytes. Not only can Tums alleviate hangover symptoms like an upset stomach and heartburn, but they can also help increase these essential minerals. It’s vital to follow the instructions on the Tums container and avoid exceeding the recommended dosage.
To replenish electrolytes after drinking, many foods can be beneficial (via Insider). Did you know that watermelon, avocado, and unsweetened coconut water are rich in electrolytes? Bananas are another excellent source of potassium. Other sources include magnesium, chloride, and phosphorus, so foods containing these minerals can help combat a hangover. To combine protein with electrolytes, consider white meat, poultry, and dairy. You can also opt for electrolyte-infused powders mixed with water and sports drinks to replenish both fluids and electrolytes lost due to alcohol consumption.
Tips for minimizing hangovers
When recovering from a hangover, using Tums with plenty of water and electrolytes can alleviate some discomfort (per MedicalNewsToday). After a night of drinking, prioritize eating breakfast to replenish your body with essential nutrients for recovery. Aim to consume foods rich in healthy fats, protein, carbohydrates, and vitamins. While you might crave greasy or carb-heavy meals, there’s no evidence that greasy foods are particularly effective for hangover recovery.
Water and sports drinks are recommended during a hangover, while caffeinated beverages like coffee and tea are subject to debate, according to Healthline. Alcohol remains in the body for about 25 hours, while caffeine’s effects last roughly six hours. As a stimulant, caffeine can make you feel more alert and energized, contrasting with alcohol’s depressant effects, which can make you feel drowsy.
Mixing stimulants with depressants may mask the depressant’s effects, potentially leading to increased alcohol consumption. One consequence of mixing caffeine and alcohol is a more intense hangover. If you’re craving coffee or other caffeinated drinks while hungover, remember that caffeine can contribute to dehydration and exacerbate hangover symptoms.
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