Study finds the effects of booze may last longer than we think
Did you have a heavy weekend on the booze?
Was the couch, a chicken fillet roll and a vomit bucket your best friend for the following day?
As we surface with a hangover from hell, a study has discovered that our alcoholic beverages continues to impact our abilities to function the next day.
The study showed that as hungover humans, we have poorer attention, memory and psychomotor skills such as coordination and speed when compared to our sober selves.
We believe it; ever attempted to person once the fear hits after a big night out? – Scary stuff.
However, being hungover could potentially have serious repercussions, according to the study.
They found that drivers who use their vehicles whilst they're hanging could have impaired cognitive processes required to navigate the road safely – even if all the alcohol has left their bloodstream.
Additionally, anyone who has been hungover in work knows just how difficult it is to get through the day.
Researchers have now warned employers to reconsider their policies surrounding alcohol and the next day effects after a drinking session, particularly from safety grounds.
The study which was published in the journal Addiction from psychologists at the University of Bath, suggested that employees should be aware of the real impacts a hangover can have on your work.
Senior author Dr Sally Adams said: "Our findings demonstrate that hangover can have serious consequences for the performance of everyday activities such as driving and workplace skills such as concentration and memory."
Leader author Craig Gunn of the Department of Psychology at the University of Bath added: "In our review of 19 studies we found that hangover impaired psychomotor speed, short and long term memory and sustained attention.
"Impaired performance in these abilities reflects poorer concentration and focus, decreased memory and reduced reaction times the day after an evening of heavy drinking. Our review also indicated limited and inconsistent research on alcohol hangover and the need for future studies in the field," he said.
The researchers are now turning their attention towards examining the true health and economic costs of a hangover and the associated risks with the next day effects of heavy drinking.
The study reminds us to think twice about our plans for the next day before heading out to get hammered.
It's probably best to leave your car behind the following day and attempt to bum a lift from a sober friend or family member.
Additionally, the safest place for you to nurse a hangover is in a dark room, under the covers in your bed – so prepare ahead of time if you decide to go hard on the alcohol.
