Latest news with #RajDasgupta
National Geographic
23-05-2025
- Health
- National Geographic
Why some people are better off sleeping on their sides
Your sleep position can cause everything from back pain to acid reflux. A simple change can improve your health dramatically. If you struggle with sleep apnea, acid reflux, or back pain, changing how you sleep may offer some relief. Photograph by pocketlight, Getty Images In recent years, a preponderance of research has shown that something as simple as sleeping on your side may be the answer to reducing back pain, heartburn, and sleep apnea—conditions that affect tens of millions of people—even if it doesn't also provide relief to some other issues people think it does. 'Side sleeping does have clear benefits over stomach or back sleeping, but only for certain groups of individuals," says Raj Dasgupta, a pulmonary and sleep medicine physician at Huntington Memorial Hospital in California. Here's what to know about who benefits most from side sleeping—and how to make the transition from sleeping on your back or belly to sleeping soundly on your side. (While we sleep, our mind goes on an amazing journey.) How side sleeping can help with sleep apnea If you sleep on your back, chances are you're a snorer. Snoring can be a problem unto itself, but it's also a symptom of obstructive sleep apnea—a condition common among back sleepers. "This obstruction is most commonly caused by your tongue, which gravity helps relax over the opening of your throat when you sleep on your back," explains Rafael Pelayo, a clinical professor at Stanford University's sleep medicine division. The obstruction disrupts airflow and causes gaps or pauses in your breathing—called apneas—that can last from mere seconds to over a minute each. These apneas not only interrupt sleep, but can also prevent oxygen from reaching the lungs, brain, and heart. As a result, affected individuals don't sleep as well and can experience "daytime drowsiness that can cause cognitive impairment, accidents, quality-of-life issues, and mood disorders," says Meir Kryger, professor emeritus of medicine at Yale's School of Medicine and author of The Mystery of Sleep: Why a Good Night's Rest is Vital to a Better, Healthier Life. When left untreated, frequent apneas have also been shown to cause adverse cardiovascular outcomes. "The most worrisome issues with untreated sleep apnea are higher risk of stroke, hypertension, heart disease, dementia, and even death," says Sonia Ancoli-Israel, a sleep scientist at the Center for Circadian Biology at the University of California, San Diego. (The toll that sleep apnea takes on the body.) Side sleeping can prevent such issues by allowing the tongue to naturally fall to the side of the mouth instead of over the back of the throat. "There's solid evidence that sleeping this way helps keep the airway open, which can reduce both snoring and your number of breathing pauses," says Dasgupta. This way of sleeping also affects the position of your soft palate and larynx, "changing the shape and size of your upper airway," says Susan Redline, director of programs in sleep medicine epidemiology and sleep and cardiovascular medicine at Brigham and Women's Hospital. She explains that this improved airway anatomy can even be "comparable to using an oral appliance for sleep apnea." Along with improving breathing in your upper respiratory tract, Redline adds that "sleeping on the side increases lung volumes, which makes it easier to take bigger breaths and helps to stiffen the upper airway structures—which further reduces collapsibility and likelihood of apneas." Side sleeping has also been shown to improve the efficiency of upper airway muscles, which can further help keep airways more rigid and open. How side sleeping can help with back pain When it comes to back pain, meta-analysis shows that sleeping on one side of your body is also better than sleeping on your back, and is significantly superior to sleeping on your stomach. Sleeping on your stomach is "not recommended for individuals with low back pain, as this position offers the least support for the lower back," says Aleksandar Videnovic, a professor of sleep neurology at Harvard Medical School. Side sleeping, by contrast, is better for those with lower back pain as it helps maintain the natural curvature of the spine and reduces pressure on your lower back. Dasgupta says that side sleeping also reduces hip pain and keeps pressure off internal organs—which is especially important for pregnant women and overweight individuals. While side sleeping alone can help reduce pressure and pain, Pelayo says that doing so with a pillow between the knees can further improve spinal alignment and symptoms. Sleeping on your back can also increase acid reflux. This causes that telltale burning in your chest known as heartburn, which, when left untreated, can lead to ulcers, swallowing difficulties, a protrusion of the stomach through the diaphragm known as a hiatal hernia, and can even increase your risk of esophageal cancer. Research shows that side sleeping helps prevent heartburn and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) by positioning the esophagus above the stomach so it's harder for stomach contents to flow up into the esophagus. Due to the shape of the stomach, the position of the small intestine, and the angle of connection between the esophagus and the stomach, sleeping specifically on your left side has been shown as more effective at preventing heartburn than sleeping on your right side. A 2022 American Journal of Gastroenterology study demonstrates similar findings. Kryger says that side sleeping has the added benefit of speeding up the digestive process by moving stomach contents into the first part of the small intestine, known as the duodenum. This means there's less food and stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus. Videnovic adds that sleeping on a thicker pillow or elevating the head of your bed can further reduce acid reflux. While people dealing with sleep apnea, back pain, or heartburn all want relief, making the switch from stomach or back sleeping to sleeping on their side can sometimes feel like a faraway dream. But doing so is easier than many people realize. (Sleepmaxxing is the newest wellness trend—but does it actually work?) 'Make sure you have enough space to get into a comfortable position—especially if you share your bed with a sleeping partner," advises Jennifer Martin, a board-certified sleep medicine specialist and the president of the board of directors for the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. Then, set your body up to find side sleeping preferable throughout the night by sleeping with your back to a body pillow, placing a large rolled-up towel on one side, or sewing a tennis ball into one side of your pajama top to make rolling onto your back uncomfortable. There are also various wearable devices available for purchase that will vibrate or make noise if you roll onto your back or stomach. Smartphone snoring apps are another option that can notify you to readjust to your side if you start snoring. "And an elbow to the side from your bed partner who's awoken by your snoring can also get you to turn back to your side in a hurry," adds Kryger. It's also wise to "make sure your sleeping environment is quiet, dark, and cool, as being disturbed by environmental factors can be extra disruptive if you are already trying to adjust to a new sleeping position," says Martin. "And if you still can't get comfortable sleeping on your side and you are not sleeping well, see a sleep specialist to be evaluated for possible sleep disorders."
Yahoo
23-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Does Coffee Count As Water? Here's What Experts Say
Hydration is a key part of a healthy body and mind. But with many of us starting our day with coffee, we could argue that a cup of joe is also a vital part of a functioning body and mind. According to Drive Research, 73% of people in the U.S. drink coffee every day, and 93% drink it at least once per week. Between a love for hydration and coffee, you've probably wondered whether your daily cup counts toward your water intake. A black coffee, cold brew, or Americano is all water, right? To get to the bottom of this, we consulted two health experts: Alex Larson, R.D.N., founder and CEO of Alex Larson Nutrition, and Dr. Raj Dasgupta, Chief Medical Advisor for Garage Gym Reviews. Coffee drinkers, listen up. Both Larson and Dr. Dasgupta say yes, coffee can count toward your daily water intake. "Even though caffeine can have a mild diuretic effect, the water in coffee usually makes up for it, especially if you're a regular drinker," Dr. Dasgupta says. However, Larson adds that high amounts of caffeine might increase fluid loss for some people. This usually happens around 400mg or more of caffeine, or four or more cups of coffee per day. In terms of how much caffeine is safe to drink, the FDA says up to 400mg of caffeine per day is "an amount not generally associated with negative effects." The experts say other drinks like tea and soda also count toward hydration, but there are some caveats. Dr. Dasgupta says drinks high in sugar and additives, like soda and energy drinks, aren't the best way to hydrate. "They're fine in moderation, but water and plain tea are better options," he says. When it comes to staying hydrated, both Larson and Dr. Dasgupta recommend pairing coffee with water. "A good rule of thumb is to pair each caffeinated beverage with a glass of water, especially around exercise or in hot weather," Larson says. And how you start your day can make an impact, too. "Starting your day with water, not just coffee, makes a big difference," Dr. Dasgupta says. He recommends keeping a water bottle nearby to sip on throughout the day. You Might Also Like Insanely Easy Weeknight Dinners To Try This Week 29 Insanely Delicious Vodka Cocktails
Yahoo
27-03-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
I tried 6 popular sleep aids — this is the one I now use every night
My bed is literally my favorite place to be (besides the gym). But as much as I love to sleep, it's been a struggle for over two decades. From racing thoughts that make it tough to drift off to multiple night awakenings, sleep just isn't my strong suit. My room is pitch black and cool, I use an eye mask, ear plugs, white noise and all of the other lifestyle hacks recommended to me by sleep experts over the years. But even then, good sleep doesn't always come easily. I've tried everything from over-the-counter remedies like melatonin and Unisom to prescription medications from my physician. They work, but aren't meant to be used long-term and usually come with annoying side effects (like next-day grogginess) I'd rather live without. As a health writer, I test and review supplements regularly, and with my history of sleep challenges, I've tested a range of products that promise a better night's rest. When I tried Nightcap gummies by Juna, I was optimistic but skeptical that they'd make a noticeable difference. But after taking them for a full 30 days, I'm now sold: These are the sleep aid my body has been waiting for. A note on supplements The products included on this list are dietary supplements. Statements about these products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Dietary supplements are not appropriate for everyone and may interact with other supplements or medications, so talk to your health care provider before adding a dietary supplement to your routine. The oversaturated sleep market can be daunting to sift through, but Juna's Nightcap gummies are the real deal. In total, I tested six natural sleep aids (you can see the others I tried below), and while they all had benefits, this is the one I keep using. Juna's Nightcap gummies are designed to promote relaxation and quality sleep without a groggy aftermath. They contain a proprietary blend of six key ingredients, although the exact amounts of each aren't disclosed on the label, so it's not clear which may be offering the greatest benefit. Here's what the science says generally about the ingredients as they relate to sleep: Passionflower extract. According to animal studies and a small, placebo-controlled human trial, passionflower has shown promise as a supplement to enhance sleep. But more conclusive evidence is needed to determine if it's beneficial for sleep promotion. Tart cherry extract: "Tart cherries are a natural source of melatonin, the hormone that regulates sleep," says board-certified sleep medicine physician Dr. Raj Dasgupta. While preliminary research is promising, only two small-scale, industry-funded studies have been performed. More data is needed to establish the benefits of tart cherry extract for insomnia. Wild jujube (GABA): This product contains 200 mcg of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the form of wild jujube. GABA is a neurotransmitter in the brain that is believed to reduce stress and anxiety and improve sleep. Dasgupta says that although wild jujube may have sedative effects, strong clinical evidence on its effectiveness is lacking, and more studies are needed. Magnesium "Magnesium is one of my top recommendations for sleep support, as it plays a key role in regulating neurotransmitters — like GABA — that promote relaxation," says registered dietitian Jessica Corwin. She says magnesium can help reduce cortisol (the stress hormone), ease muscle tension and improve sleep. According to research, it may help improve sleep quality and duration. L-tryptophan: L-tryptophan is an essential amino acid, meaning we need to consume it through our diet because our bodies can't produce it, says registered dietitian Shelley Balls. "L-tryptophan plays an important role in the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that promotes relaxation and sleep," she says. In a meta-analysis published in the journal Nutrition Reviews, tryptophan supplementation at ≥1 gram showed improved sleep quality. Phytomelatonin (from St. John's Wort): Melatonin is a hormone naturally produced by the body that regulates the sleep-wake cycle. The sleep-enhancing effects of melatonin are well documented for jet lag and certain sleep disorders — usually in doses of 1 to 6 milligrams, but it's not recommended to be used long term. The Juna Nightcap gummies contain 0.3 mg, the amount naturally produced by the body each day. This amount may be all that's needed to improve sleep efficiency in individuals with jet lag and those with low melatonin levels. I tested each of the products for a full 30 days. While I had positive results with a number of the options, the Juna Nightcap gummies are the ones I'm continuing to use. Not only did I experience better sleep from the very first night I tried the supplement, but over the course of the month I fell asleep faster and had fewer middle-of-the-night wakings with this product. I also experienced zero morning grogginess, and on the nights when I did rouse from sleep, I was able to fall back asleep quickly — a feat that can sometimes take me hours when I'm not using a sleep aid. I also found these gummies easy to take — the dose is only a single gummy, and it's pleasantly flavored. I took it about 30 minutes to an hour before I wanted to fall asleep and I found myself feeling relaxed and drowsy by the time I was ready to hit the hay. While I don't love that the individual doses for each of the six ingredients aren't clearly listed on the packaging, I've found that my body does seem to respond better to mixed-ingredient options like this supplement, rather than those that only feature a single ingredient. However, as Dasgupta points out, this makes it harder to know exactly what you're dealing with and may be more of a "red flag" for individuals taking medications or managing illnesses that may preclude the use of certain ingredients. It's important to note that the FDA does not approve dietary supplements for safety and effectiveness before they're marketed to the public. That's why it's crucial to consult your health care provider before adding a sleep supplement to your wellness routine. Dasgupta emphasizes that certain groups should exercise extra caution, including women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, individuals taking medications and those with certain medical conditions like kidney or liver disease. "St. John's Wort can interact with many medications, including antidepressants, blood thinners and birth control; magnesium can cause digestive issues like diarrhea and L-Tryptophan may interact with medications that affect serotonin, like antidepressants, potentially leading to serotonin syndrome," he says. "The Juna Nightcap Sleep Gummies contain a mix of ingredients that could support relaxation and sleep," says Dasgupta. However, he adds that the overall effectiveness depends on the dosages of each ingredient, which aren't clearly disclosed. What's more, some ingredients, like passionflower and tart cherry, have less scientific backing for sleep, so results may vary. While I found the gummies highly effective, they may not be a fit for everyone. Working on your sleep hygiene before resorting to a sleep aid is also essential "It"s always best to start with lifestyle strategies — like establishing a regular sleep routine, reducing evening blue light exposure and managing stress — before relying solely on supplements," recommends Corwin. And as always, it's a good idea to check in with your healthcare provider, especially if you're taking other medications. Natural Dreams by Univera is a great option if you're looking for a melatonin-free supplement. It's designed to increase the time you spend in deep sleep, the stage of sleep that helps you feel more rested when you wake up. I slept well and woke up feeling refreshed. The only small con was that my mouth felt dry — a potential side effect of the valerian root it contains. Rest by Hey Freya is another melatonin-free option that helped me sleep without next-day grogginess. One of its key ingredients is L-theanine, which promotes rest by reducing anxiety. I definitely felt a calm state of mind before drifting off into slumberland. I also like that the blend, which also contains valerian root and magnesium, is vegan and non-GMO. MoonBrew Night Time Superfoods is a melatonin-free drink mix that really helps me unwind at the end of the day. I tried the hot chocolate flavor; it tastes just like the real thing minus the sugar. The main ingredients are magnesium, L-theanine, jujube and chamomile. Overall, I liked the calming effects and slept better than usual. Thorne Melatonin-3 is a no-frills supplement containing 3 milligrams of melatonin. It's a solid choice (which happens to top our list of best melatonin supplements) if you're looking for a straight melatonin option, but I personally find a blend of ingredients to be more effective. It's also NSF Certified for Sport, which helps guarantee safety and quality. JUNG+ Advanced Sleep Repair is designed to improve sleep over a year, but I tested it for a month and still noticed improvements. Mainly, I didn't wake up as often and felt less groggy in the mornings. It contains solid, research-backed ingredients like magnesium and L-theanine and is melatonin-free. While I'd love to keep using it, it's hard to justify the high price point ($69) when there are other effective options available for less. Raj Dasgupta, MD, an ABIM Quadruple board-certified physician specializing in internal medicine, pulmonology, critical care and sleep medicine and chief medical adviser for Sleepopolis Shelley Balls, MDA, RDN, LDN, a registered dietitian and nutritionist for Flawless Bloom Jessica Corwin, MPH, RDN, head coach at Respin Health Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.
Yahoo
28-02-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
7 best magnesium supplements for 2025, tested and reviewed by a dietitian
Half of Americans don't get enough magnesium despite the mineral being found in a wide variety of foods. Finding the best magnesium supplement can help bridge that gap, supporting everything from sleep to muscle function. "Magnesium is responsible for over 300 enzymatic reactions in the body," says Trista Best, MPH, RDN, LD of the Candida Diet. "It is essential for muscle, nerve and heart function, as well as energy production. Magnesium deficiencies can lead to serious health and quality of life issues, including anxiety, poor sleep, muscle spasms, poor bone health and migraines, to name just a few," she explains. Fortunately, supplementing with magnesium can help counteract these deficiencies. According to Dr. Raj Dasgupta, chief medical advisor for Garage Gym Reviews, the best magnesium supplements "can help with stress reduction, better sleep and even digestive health. Plus, they're an easy way to ensure you meet your daily needs if your diet falls short." The tricky part is deciphering which product to choose. Several forms of magnesium are available, each varying in composition and effects on health. For example, magnesium glycinate is often used to help manage stress, whereas magnesium oxide is better suited for people with heartburn or indigestion. To determine the best magnesium supplements for a variety of needs, I first consulted a registered dietitian and a medical doctor to gather their input on what to look for in high-quality options. Then, as a registered dietitian myself, I used my education and years of clinical experience to research more than 20 magnesium supplements to better understand their types and benefits. I narrowed these down to 11 top-rated products and worked with a panel of testers to do hands-on reviews. Whether you're looking to prevent migraines or simply boost your magnesium intake, our expert- and tester-approved picks have you covered. A note on supplements The products included on this list are dietary supplements. Such supplements are regulated far less stringently by the FDA than medications, with little evaluation of safety or effectiveness before they go to market. Supplements may also interact with other medications and aren't appropriate for all populations or health conditions. While our health writers personally select and test products that are evidence-based, it's important to talk to your health care provider before adding a dietary supplement to your routine. Magnesium comes in various forms, each offering unique benefits and drawbacks. Choosing the right one depends on your health goals and absorption rate. Here's a quick rundown of five of the most common types of magnesium you'll find in supplements: Magnesium glycinate: This form of magnesium combines magnesium and the amino acid glycine. It is easily absorbed and associated with fewer GI side effects than other types. While more research is needed, magnesium glycinate is thought to have calming properties and may help manage stress, anxiety, depression and insomnia. Magnesium citrate: This highly absorbable form of magnesium comprises magnesium bound to citric acid, a natural compound found in citrus fruits. This combination enhances solubility and bioavailability, making it one of the most common forms of magnesium supplement used for deficiencies. It also has a mild laxative effect, which makes it an option for relieving occasional constipation. At higher doses, it is often used as a short-term treatment for acute constipation, such as before medical procedures like colonoscopies. Magnesium oxide: A salt of magnesium that combines magnesium and oxygen, typically found in powder form. It may help reduce heartburn, stomach upset and chronic constipation. However, because it's less readily absorbed, it isn't the best option for increasing blood magnesium levels. Magnesium L-threonate: An absorbable form of magnesium created by combining magnesium with threonic acid, a compound derived from vitamin C. While research is ongoing, this form is believed to be especially beneficial for brain health. Studies suggest it may play a role in supporting cognitive function, improving memory and potentially aiding in the treatment of depression and age-related cognitive decline. Magnesium malate: A combination of magnesium and malic acid naturally found in fruits. Because it's readily absorbed and less likely to cause diarrhea, it's sometimes recommended instead of magnesium citrate to treat magnesium deficiencies. With so many magnesium supplements on the market, choosing the right one for your specific health goals can be difficult. Here's what to keep in mind to select the best magnesium supplements for you: Type of magnesium: Different forms of magnesium serve different purposes. Magnesium glycinate is often used for sleep and anxiety, while magnesium oxide is more effective for relieving constipation. Choosing the right type depends on your specific health needs. Form: Magnesium supplements are available in capsule, liquid, powder and gummy form. While liquid supplements generally absorb faster, choose a form you feel comfortable taking regularly. Bioavailability and absorption rate: Some types of magnesium are more readily absorbed than others. If you have a confirmed magnesium deficiency, select a form that's easier for your body to absorb, like magnesium glycinate. Dosage per serving: The ideal amount of magnesium per serving depends on the type of magnesium, the intended benefit and how much magnesium you're already getting in your diet. A doctor or registered dietitian can help identify the correct dose for you. Additional ingredients and fillers: Whenever possible, choose a supplement with minimal additives, such as artificial colors or fillers. Some products also include extra nutrients, which may be beneficial depending on your diet, but if you're already getting these from other supplements, they may not be necessary. Third-party testing: It's essential to select supplements tested for purity and potency, ideally by a third-party organization such as NSF, UL Solutions or US Pharmacopeia (USP). Potential side effects: Certain forms of magnesium are more likely to cause side effects than others. Magnesium oxide, for example, is known to cause diarrhea, whereas magnesium glycinate is generally well-tolerated. Research each form of magnesium to understand its potential side effects. Value: Good-quality magnesium supplements are available at virtually every price point. Because some products require taking multiple pills or gummies daily, comparing the price per serving is important when deciding which product is best for your budget. As a registered dietitian with nearly a decade of experience, I've closely followed the latest in dietary supplements to ensure the most up-to-date recommendations. To provide a well-rounded perspective, I consulted a fellow registered dietitian and a board-certified physician for their insights on magnesium supplements and the various available forms. Our team reviewed over 20 products from over 15 brands, narrowing it down to 11 magnesium supplements for hands-on testing. With the help of family and friends, each product was tested for at least one week and evaluated based on ease of use, taste, cost, effectiveness and overall user experience. MegaFood Magnesium 300 mg Capsules: These vegetarian-friendly capsules contain three easily absorbed forms of magnesium: citrate, malate and glycinate. While we liked that the supplement is designed to be gentle on the stomach and can be taken at any time of day, the capsule's large size and rough texture made it harder to swallow. Trace Minerals Mega-Mag Liquid Magnesium Chloride: This liquid option is hard to beat. It's formulated for optimal absorption and third-party tested to ensure purity and potency. The tricky part is the recommended dose of 20 drops per day. While you can spread the dose throughout the day, we struggled to remember to do so. Trace Minerals No Muscle Cramps: This liquid supplement contains a unique blend of magnesium and electrolytes to keep muscle cramps at bay. While it has hundreds of rave reviews online, our tester found it hard to get past the oily texture when mixed with water. Nature Made Magnesium Glycinate: Easily available in stores and online, this option is formulated to be readily absorbed and gentle on the stomach. The biggest downside is the recommended dose of three relatively large capsules daily. Plus, unlike many Nature Made supplements, this one isn't third-party certified. Magnesium supplements are a convenient way to ensure you get enough of this essential mineral in your diet. Depending on the form you take, magnesium supplements can also help prevent migraines, ease constipation, improve sleep and lower stress and anxiety levels. According to Dasgupta, "Magnesium glycinate and magnesium L-threonate are among the most bioavailable forms, meaning your body can absorb and use them efficiently." Magnesium citrate is also easily absorbed, though it "has a laxative effect that some may want to avoid," adds Best. The ideal magnesium dosage from supplements depends on your dietary intake and whether you have a confirmed deficiency. The recommended daily intake for adults is 350 mg for women and 420 mg for men, though this can vary based on age, health status and individual needs. "Yes, magnesium can help with sleep because it supports muscle relaxation, calms the nervous system and might lower cortisol levels. It also plays a role in melatonin production, which can help regulate your circadian rhythm. However, its impact isn't guaranteed, so it's best to manage expectations," explains Dasgupta. "Taking too much magnesium can cause diarrhea, nausea or stomach cramps. It can also interact with certain medications, so talk to your doctor first," notes Dasgupta. Trista Best, MPH, RDN, LD, registered dietitian at the Candida Diet Dr. Raj Dasgupta, chief medical advisor for Garage Gym Reviews Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.
Fox News
29-01-2025
- Health
- Fox News
Your problems with alcohol might be far more than a hangover
Nausea, headaches, sensitivity to light and sound are all common symptoms of a hangover, and most of these will go away over time as the body works to process alcohol. But it might not just be a hangover, a doctor told Fox News Digital. These symptoms could be something else – such as an alcohol allergy or alcohol intolerance. "If you feel awful after drinking alcohol, it's not always just a hangover," Dr. Raj Dasgupta of California told Fox News Digital. "While a hangover is the most common reaction to overindulging, some people might actually be dealing with alcohol intolerance or even an alcohol allergy, both of which can feel very different." Dasgupta specializes in internal medicine with Huntington Health in the Los Angeles area. A hangover, Dasgupta said, "is what happens when you drink more alcohol than your body can handle. It's a combination of dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, inflammation and your liver working overtime to process alcohol." Hangovers can sometimes be avoided, he said, "if you pace yourself and stay hydrated." Alcohol intolerance is a reaction that happens quickly, often within minutes. One thing that cannot be avoided for certain people, however, is alcohol intolerance. "Alcohol intolerance is a reaction that happens quickly, often within minutes of having even a small amount of alcohol," he said. Those with an alcohol intolerance have an enzyme deficiency, Dasgupta said, and are unable to break down alcohol. "Common symptoms include flushing (especially in the face), a stuffy nose, nausea and a racing heartbeat," he said. "This isn't about drinking too much. It's your body signaling that it can't handle alcohol well at all." While "much rarer" than a hangover or alcohol intolerance, a person who is feeling sick after drinking alcohol might be suffering from an alcohol allergy, Dasgupta told Fox News Digital. "An alcohol allergy is much rarer but also more serious," he said. "It's an immune response to something in the drink, such as barley, wheat, yeast or sulfites." For more Lifestyle articles, visit A person who has an allergy to alcohol will have a reaction "almost immediately" after consuming it. "Symptoms might include hives, swelling, difficulty breathing, stomach pain or even anaphylaxis," he said — which can be life-threatening. "So it's critical to seek medical help if they occur," Dasgupta said. However, if a person is feeling fine until the morning after, he or she most likely has a hangover, Dasgupta said — and it will go away with time. Still, "if [symptoms] show up right after drinking, pay attention," he said. "Flushing and mild discomfort may point to intolerance, while anything involving swelling or breathing trouble is likely an allergy and warrants immediate medical attention," he said. "When in doubt, talk to your doctor. They can help you figure it out and stay safe."
