Food swaps to take the guilt out of drunk eating!
Be it McDonald's, Abrakebabra or the local chipper, there's no denying that our cravings for greasy food intensify by approximately 150% when we are drunk.
Much as it might be immensely satisfying at the time, eating fatty, greasy food will only increase the likelihood that you'll be dying tomorrow. Your liver will be so busy breaking down all that fat that it won't be able to work on cleansing your body of alcohol. The result? You'll not only be dehydrated from consuming excess salt, but you'll also have a killer of a hangover.
If you're hitting the town tonight, try these food swaps to keep you satisfied without the pain tomorrow! And don't worry, we haven't included anything EXCESSIVELY healthy. No-one expects you to start knocking back shots of wheatgrass when you're drunk – save those for tomorrow!
1. If you're craving… a burger
Try…
A grilled chicken sandwich or peanut butter on toast.
Why?
Too much fat is bad for your digestion and will leave you bloated tafterwards. Toast or a light sandwich still contains some fat, but the protein you'll get from chicken or peanut butter will do your body far more good than a greasy burger.
2. If you're craving… pizza
Try…
A veggie panini or grilled cheese on toast.
Why?
The main problem with pizza is not the dough, it's the huge amounts of cheese and greasy toppings like pepperoni (nom). Cut down on fat and calories by swapping pizza for a sandwich with lighter toppings. If you're really in the mood for cheese, melt some cheddar on toast at home – that way, you're in charge of the portion control AND you can eat it in your PJs while dancing to Taylor Swift in the living room.
3. If you're craving… chips
Try…
Light crisps or pita chips with a dip like hummus
Why?
You'll still get some salty, tasty goodness of chips but without the excess grease. Plus hummus is full of protein and will leave you feeling fuller for longer.
4. If you're craving… chocolate and biscuits
Try…
Fruit like cherries, oranges or bananas
Why?
Fruit still gives you a sugar hit from fruit but without the guilt tomorrow. Cherries are reportedly great for easing pain – we'll try anything to help with that Sunday morning hangover. Oranges and other citrus fruits are hugely hydrating, while bananas will replenish the potassium that alcohol can deplete.