Alcohol tends to makes you put on weight and can give you a mind splitting hangover. But if you like to enjoy a drink without getting a hangover here are some tips. Nutritionist Neelanjana Singh with Heinz Nutri Life Clinic from Delhi shares some drinking tips to fight a hangover and reduce the alcohol effects to your body. “Several factors influence the rate at which alcohol is absorbed by the body,” say the nutritionist.

“The most important factor is the presence of food in the stomach. If there is food in the stomach, the rate at which alcohol will be absorbed will be slower than when one is on an empty stomach. It is always a better idea to consume alcohol after a meal.” It is recommended to eat before you go drinking or eat as you drink to reduce the impact of alcohol on your body. Mixers for drinks too make an important ingredient to fight a hangover.

“What you mix with the drinks is also a crucial factor influencing absorption. Mixing fruit and vegetable juices is a good idea as it slows down the process of absorption. On the same lines, if one adds sodas or carbonated beverages, the rate of absorption goes up.” Adding a dash a lime is said to slower absorption of alcohol. Lime reduces the impact of alcohol on the liver too.

“Here is one situation when fat in the diet may not be totally undesirable. As fat tends to stay in the stomach longer than the other nutrients, a snack with adequate fat ought to be taken with the meal,” explains Neelanjana Singh. Consuming a heavy greasy meal helps fight a hangover. “So drink if you must, but stay on course with the above advice.” Alcohol affects the liver and also the skin, heavy consumption of alcohol can cause early aging and make you sluggish. It is important to control alcohol consumption to maintain a healthy life.