Health expert explains reason behind why we get ‘hangxiety’ after drinking

Many Brits admit to knocking it back a bit more than usual in the summer months.

Whether its to celebrate the Euros, pre-game before a festival or just soak up the vitamin D in an outside terrace garden - it's clear many of us have been no stranger to a drink (or five) and the hangovers that inevitably follow after.

And, as if the pounding headache and funny tummy weren't enough to put you off the tipples for a decent amount of time, there's the dreaded hangxiety which makes a bad hangover feel like hell.

'Hangxiety' is the dreaded consequence following a night of drinking. (Rawpixel / Getty Images)

While the phrase may be relatively new, the science behind it has existed as long as drinking itself.

So, for Alcohol Awareness Week, which kicked off this week (1 July) and is set to continue on until Sunday (7 July), one expert has explained the actual reason behind why we get 'hangxiety' after drinking and how to combat it.

What is 'hangxiety'?

Hangxiety, booze blues, beer fear, prangxiety - whatever you call it - essentially refers to the anxious feelings that often accompany a hangover.

Whether you're freaking out about oversharing on a first date, getting a bit rowdy at a work do or spilling your darkest secrets to your family at a wedding - I'm sure we've all been struck with a wave of hangxiety at least once in our lives.

But, what goes on inside of us that makes us so anxious after a boozing session?

'Hangxiety' refers to the anxious feelings that often accompany a hangover. (LaylaBird / Getty Images)

What's the science behind 'hangxiety'?

Sleep expert, Martin Seeley at MattressNextDay, tells Tyla: "Alcohol disrupts the production of a neurotransmitter called GABA, which promotes feelings of relaxation and calmness. This can lead to anxiety when the effects of the alcohol wear off, leaving you feeling on edge.

"Vasopressin is a hormone that is important for rational decision making and memory consolidation. This hormone is suppressed by alcohol, which is why you can sometimes make some questionable decisions while under the influence, and then wake up filled with regret and foggy memories."

Not only does your bod have to contend with all of that but alcohol also weakens the immune system, making you more susceptible to illness and adding to the 'run down' feeling, on top of sleep being interrupted, making you feel tired and irritable.

How can you combat 'hangxiety'?

Right, so now we know what it is - how on earth do you deal with it once it's happened and stop it happening again?

Hydration is key

Martin explains that alcohol dehydrates the body, increasing fatigue and making causing headaches.

So, be sure you drink plenty of water throughout the day so replenish lost fluids, as well as remembering to drink water alongside the alcohol to keep hydration levels up.

Avoid the coffee next time you're hanging. (Getty Stock Images)

Eat well

"Eat well to nourish your body with healthy foods rich in vitamins and electrolytes," the expert suggests.

Think fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to help your body recover.

Martin continued: "Combat muscle weakness with bananas, which are high in potassium, and leafy green can help replace vitamins and mineral levels that have been depleted by a night of drinking."

Avoid caffeine

Now, while a strong coffee might seem like the best option for recovery, the caffeine will dehydrate you and make your hangxiety worse.

Martin says: "Caffeine blocks adenosine, a neurotransmitter that promotes sleep and relaxation - this leads to increased alertness and energy, but can also lead to jitters, restlessness, and increased anxiety."

Beauty sleep is a MUST. (Getty Stock Images)

Embrace rest

The expert says one of the best things you can do is 'prioritise sleep' to allow your body to rest, recharge, and heal.

Whether you treat yourself to a nap in a cool, dark room, or try some gentle stretching and yoga - the morning after the night before is a great opportunity to do some things to help ease tension and promote relaxation.

Supplements

Martin suggests you consider taking electrolytes or B-complex vitamins, both of which can be found in premium waters.

"Electrolytes aid in regulating fluid balance and muscle function, while B vitamins play an instrumental role in energy production and nervous system function," he added.

Happy hangovers, guys!

Stock up on your vitty B. (Getty Stock Images)

According to the NHS, over seven and a half million people in the UK show signs of alcohol dependence, with alcohol being the third leading preventable cause of death in the UK after smoking and obesity-related diseases.

The NHS also recommends those who want to consume alcohol to drink no more than 14 units of alcohol a week, spread across 3 days or more - that's around 6 medium (175ml) glasses of wine, or 6 pints of 4% beer.

If you want to discuss any issues relating to alcohol in confidence, contact Drinkline on 0300 123 1110, 9am–8pm weekdays and 11am–4pm weekends for advice and support

If you're experiencing distressing thoughts and feelings, the Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) is there to support you. They're open from 5pm–midnight, 365 days a year. Their national number is 0800 58 58 58 and they also have a webchat service if you're not comfortable talking on the phone.