We all know what a hangover is, but for those overly innocent few who don't know:

A hangover is medically refered to as veisalgia and is caused by the consumption of to much alcohol or other drugs. The main cause is from the ethanol being introduced to the body. This causes dehydration which is the main cause for the many symptoms experienced the next day. 

The symptoms are varied but usually include:

• Dizziness
• Dehydration, dry mouth
• Fatigue
• Sensitivity to light
• A general lack of concentration
• Headaches
• Irritability
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Flatulence
• Nausea
• Anxiety

Before going into the many home remedies you can do to fix a hangover I think it would wise to let you in on a few secrets to avoid getting one in the first place.

The best way to avoid a hangover is to not drink, but for those of us who like to indulge please remember to do the following:

• Never dirnk on an empty stomach, remember that food absorbs alcohol
• Limit your drinks to one per hour
• Try to consume water in between alcoholic drinks
• Stay away from carbonated drinks, they speed up alcohol absorption
• Stay away from sugar as well, they mask alcohol and you end up consuming more

Hydration

The first and most important remedy to get your body hydrated. The more hydrated you are the less likely you are to experience the many symptoms. Drink plenty of luke warm water, fruit juice (skip acidic juice, apple juice is great, or coconut water.

Potassium

Alcohol causes a loss of potassium, eat a banana before bed or right after you wake up.

Ginger

Nausea can be best treated with ginger, try drinking some real ginger ale or making ginger tea.

Sleep

If your hangover is especially horrible take a nap, sleeping is the best cure for a hangover.

Make a Smoothie

Your stomach probably doesn't want anything heavy. Try making a simple smoothie by chopping one banana, adding some honey, and some milk in a blender. It will settle the stomach and give you the vitamins and minerals you need to refresh your body.

Tea & Coffee

First of all stay away from coffee and anythign with caffeine in it, this will further dehydrate you. Try brewing some chamomile tea or peppermint tea. Green tea is also a wonderful aide, the antioxidants and overall refreshing qualities of the tea are great for getting you back on your feet. I like it iced with no sugar or cream.

Exercise

If you're up for it try a quick run or any activity to get your heart pumping. Sweating brings out the toxins and refreshes you.

Bloody Mary

This is kind of a "bite the hair" approach but the tomato juice and the pickled garnishes are great, plus to vodka kinda gets you back on your feet. This is a bit unusual for me to recommend something like this, but it does work.