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How To Cure, Or At Least Minimize, Your Hangover

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- On Wednesday morning, a lot of people will try to nurse their pounding headaches.

New Year's Eve is one of those nights when many drinkers do go overboard, and then pay for it the next day.

So how do you treat -- or better yet, prevent -- a hangover?

While there's no real cure, there are plenty of theories.

Too much of any type of alcohol will cause a hangover, but drinking clear ones, like vodka and gin, will make it less severe.

The compounds in the darker drinks that give them color and flavor will intensify the next day's pain.

Some revelers say eating a big greasy burger helps with a hangover.

But doctors say greasy, spicy food won't help. They recommend eating bland foods, and drinking plenty of water.

Electrolyte-filled drinks – like Gatorade or Pedialyte – can help recovery, and exercise may offer some relief.

However, in the end, it all depends on how much you drink.

The Mayo Clinic suggests you not drink on an empty stomach, and drink plenty of water.

Pain relievers can help, but be aware that aspirin may irritate your stomach and acetaminophen may damage your liver.

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