The Pat Kenny Show Science with Luke: How to avoid a hangover?
Nov 27, 2025
Luke O'Neill, a distinguished Professor of Biochemistry at Trinity College Dublin, dives deep into the science of hangovers. He details how compounds like acetaldehyde and dehydrating effects lead to those dreaded morning-after symptoms. Interestingly, he explains why infrequent drinkers often suffer worse hangovers and discusses the role of congeners in darker drinks. O'Neill shares practical tips like consuming milk before drinking and opting for carbohydrates and juice the next morning. His insights aim to help listeners make informed, enjoyable choices this holiday season.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Multiple Causes Behind Hangovers
- Hangovers arise from multiple mechanisms: disrupted sleep, dehydration and neurotransmitter rebound.
- Acetaldehyde plays a role but sleep disruption, dehydration and glutamate/GABA imbalance explain most symptoms.
Frequency Affects Hangover Severity
- Infrequent drinkers get worse hangovers because their bodies aren't adapted to alcohol.
- Regular drinkers metabolize alcohol more efficiently and often report milder hangovers.
Dark Drinks Worsen Hangovers
- Darker alcoholic drinks contain congeners like methanol that worsen hangovers.
- Studies comparing dark versus clear versions (e.g., grappa) show darker variants produce worse next-day effects.