Age and other factors contribute to hangover recovery [Video]

Jan. 1 is National Hangover Day, and with New Year’s Eve and other holidays in full swing, many people across social media are sharing their tips and tricks to combat the effects for those who may have drunk too much alcohol. One of the most common responses echoed for years, including across pop culture and social media is that hangovers get worse as you get older.

THE QUESTION

Do hangovers get worse with age?

THE SOURCES

THE ANSWER

This claim needs context. Yes, studies show that your body’s ability to process alcohol gets less efficient as you age. Key body functions that help metabolize alcohol, like liver enzymes and total body water weight, tend to decrease with age. But other factors – like how much you drink and what you’re drinking – …