On the street

John's Grocery, Iowa City

When approaching people for this On the Street about hangover remedies, some hesitated to admit that they'd suffered a hangover.

I can respect that. You don't want people to read the paper and assume you're a lush.

But I'm fine with admitting that I've had a hangover. (OK, maybe more than one.)

It doesn't mean I'm a horrible, irresponsible person. I didn't drink and drive or show up to work reeking of booze. Like most adults, I experienced a steep decrease in hangovers as I transitioned from college life to life as a young professional.  (That darn career thing really gets in the way of partying, huh?)

But, like almost any drinker, I've gotten caught up in the moment and overindulged - and suffered the next day for my mistake. It's just like on Thanksgiving, when you know you're full, but you can't resist a slice of pumpkin pie. It's human.

There was the time my college friends and I took advantage of a 21 pitchers of beer for $21 deal on my 21st birthday.

Then there was my bachelorette party. (Wearing a shot glass necklace that says "I'm getting hitched. Buy me a shot." actually works.)

And last, but not least, there was the girls-only trip to Mexico during spring break of my senior year of college. (Bars should NEVER be open all night. Stupid people like us don't know when to go home, and then have to waste an entire day of the trip sleeping until 5 p.m.)

When I interviewed people on Thursday about hangover remedies, I got plenty of colorful answers - everything from vomiting to choking down a concoction containing raw eggs (which, in many cases, probably induces vomiting).

My solution is a combination of several people's answers: Sleep as late as possible. Drink a sugary drink, like a Cherry Coke or a Gatorade. Take a pain killer. Then, later in the day when the stomach feels stronger, eat a comfort food like macaroni and cheese.

Of course, we all know the best solution is to prevent a hangover in the first place by drinking less - or not at all - and having several glasses of water throughout the night. Sometimes, though, it's hard to remember such sensibilities on a special occasion when you're living it up with your friends.

Hopefully those of you reading this aren't feeling too miserable today - and, if you are, hopefully one of the remedies will help.

Tune in next week, when Carly Weber will hit the gym to hear about people's New Year's resolutions.

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