Remember the time when you could drink as much as you wanted and just wake up the next day like nothing ever happened? Well, you might have noticed that hangovers got worse over time and that they have turned from manageable things to all-day struggles. But does science back up this claim? While there are biological reasons why alcohol may hit harder with age, research suggests the answer isn’t as straightforward as many believe.
Why Hangovers Might Feel Worse as You Age
There are multiple changes that we go through when we get older that could contribute to harsher hangovers. We have listed some of the most common changes for people:
- Slower Alcohol Metabolism: The liver becomes less efficient at breaking down alcohol, allowing toxic byproducts like acetaldehyde to linger longer. This chemical is a major culprit behind nausea, headaches, and inflammation.
- Increased Dehydration: Aging reduces the body’s water content, leading to higher blood alcohol concentration with each drink. This means less alcohol is needed to feel intoxicated, and dehydration—a key factor in hangovers—hits harder.
- Worsened Sleep Quality: Alcohol disrupts sleep, and since older adults already experience lighter, more fragmented sleep, the exhaustion from drinking can be more pronounced.
- Chronic Aches and Pains: Aging bodies often deal with muscle soreness, joint pain, and other ailments that alcohol can exacerbate, making hangovers feel more intense.
Can you see why the hangovers might feel like they’re a lot worse than you’re used to? Keep on reading to discover if you actually have worse hangovers when you’re older!
Do Older Adults Actually Have Worse Hangovers?
Interestingly, studies suggest older drinkers report fewer and less severe hangovers than younger people. Large-scale surveys indicate that as people age, they tend to drink more moderately and develop a better understanding of their limits. Some scientists also propose that older adults might experience reduced pain sensitivity, making hangovers feel less intense.
So, Does Aging Guarantee Worse Hangovers?
Not necessarily. While biological factors may increase susceptibility to rough mornings, drinking habits, hydration levels, and overall health play a huge role. The best way to avoid brutal hangovers at any age? Drink less, pace yourself, and hydrate frequently.
