Most people enjoy a drink now and then, whether it’s at a lively party or a quiet dinner at home. But what many don’t realise is that the real trouble often begins not with the alcohol itself, but with what they choose to eat alongside it. Without thinking twice, people pair their drinks with foods that may be silently pushing their bodies into discomfort.
Doctors explain that the problem usually starts as soon as the first snack lands on the table. Alcohol already slows down digestion, and when it meets heavy, oily or fried foods, the stomach struggles even more. The liver, responsible for breaking down both fats and alcohol, is forced to handle double the load. This can lead to acid buildup, heartburn, bloating and that familiar uneasy feeling people often dismiss as normal after drinking. In reality, it’s the body signalling that it’s under strain.
Another common habit is reaching for something sweet after a few sips. Since alcohol is already high in sugar, pairing it with desserts like pastries or chocolates causes blood sugar to spike suddenly. Nutritionists say this puts pressure on the pancreas and can make hangovers much harsher the next day. When too much alcohol and too much sugar collide, the result is usually fatigue, nausea and dehydration.
A growing trend, especially among younger drinkers, is mixing alcohol with caffeine to “stay awake” or feel more alert. But coffee and energy drinks only worsen the dehydration caused by alcohol. While caffeine creates a brief feeling of sharpness, it also hides the signs of intoxication, giving people the impression that they can drink more. This not only increases health risks but often disrupts sleep and heightens restlessness long after the night ends.
The good news is that healthier choices are much simpler than most people think. Drinking water or coconut water helps the body recover from lost fluids. Light fruits like apples, bananas or grapes replenish minerals without irritating the stomach. Soups or mildly cooked vegetables soothe digestion and allow the body to reset gently instead of struggling to catch up.
Learning what not to pair with alcohol can make celebrations easier on the body—and mornings far kinder.
