Hiya Gorgeous,
Holidays, celebrations and long weekends with old pals can jack you up with joy. But, along with the laughs and memories can come lots of boozy, noshy indulgences. And as you well know, too much merry-making sends your body into a tailspin of mood swings, depression, dehydration, a weakened immune system and weight gain that’s difficult to bounce back from.
No one likes to feel like crap in the days following these shindigs, which is why I want to help you prepare, repair and recover.
Now, when I need a reset from carousing, you can probably guess that I turn to a green juice or smoothie (even before my coffee!). I also get creative because certain ingredients are especially helpful when we’ve over-indulged.
But as we explore how to feel better, let’s stay real. There’s no place for punishment or negative self-talk around here. Though I’m a cancer thriver and a “well-known wellness blogger”, I’m no purist—believe me. Life is full of detours—some more frisky than others. What’s most important is that you don’t beat yourself up. Instead, get right back on track and take care of yourself. Got it? So, let’s dive into the belly of the par-tay beast and figure out how to feel better.
Why the heck do you get hangovers and fall into food comas?
For starters, alcohol burns up vitamins, minerals and electrolytes—vitamin B1 (thiamin) taking the biggest hit. B1 is mainly responsible for mental alertness, converting your food into fuel and strengthening your ability to respond to stress. That’s why one too many dirty martinis lead to headaches, mental fog, low energy, depression and increased anxiety.
Plus, alcohol is a diuretic. So, drinking more than one drink per hour can dehydrate your body, making many of the issues I just mentioned even worse. One last fun fact: Did you know that one night of heavy drinking weakens key defenses in your immune system for a full 24 hours, making you more likely to catch a cold or a bug after a big night out? Double-whammy.
Heavier holiday foods are often rich in calories, low in fiber, low in energizing vitamins and minerals, high in sodium and take a great deal more energy to digest. All this can lead to weight gain, constipation and fatigue. Even when you’re trying to nourish your body and know all the reasons you should limit certain foods or drinks, it’s easy to get swept up in the spirit. Cheers!
But, don’t distress, dear wild one. You’ll be able to bounce back swiftly—read on.
How to Bounce Back From the Ho-Ho-Holiday Hangover!
If you suspect you might have a full night of partying ahead, consider taking a multivitamin. There are also certain enzymes that can help ease the damage of histamine-releasing foods and drinks—alcohol being a prime example.
Also, drink plenty of water during the day so you’re heading into the evening with a full tank. And, drink a glass of water between each alcoholic drink and another before bed. Glug, glug.
If you still feel crummy when you wake up, rest and nourish your body. A headache can mean you’re short on electrolytes and fluids so try hydrating with coconut water and sipping green juices full of potassium-rich ingredients, like spinach, Swiss chard and celery.
If nausea sets in, avoid citrus fruits and other acidic foods and sip ginger tea or Crazy Sexy Juice’s Ginger Aid juice to help settle your stomach.

Ginger Aid (Crazy Sexy Juice)
Makes 2 Servings (16 to 20 Ounces)
- 1 1/2 cups spinach
- 1 large cucumber
- 2 stalks celery
- 1 large pear, cored and seeded
- 1-inch piece ginger, peeled
1. Wash and prep all ingredients.
2. Juice all ingredients.
I agree with Harriet’s comment re: multi vitamins and iron but the copper/boron fear may not be what it seems. Check out Morley Robbins who has been researching the whole ‘high copper’ myth for many years. It seems it is about copper dysregulation and that iron toxicity is the culprit. Morley has an eye opening podcast on iron dysregulation with Wendy Myers on ‘Live to 110’. A very important podcast for people, particularly women, who have been advised by their GP to take iron supplements thinking they are low. Ferritin should read no higher than 50, not the ridiculous levels we are being pushed into. Even naturopaths are giving our copper and iron advice without really understanding what a hair analysis means and why recommending iron supplements is very damaging. If you have histamine intolerance then please listen to the podcast.
Thanks for your comment, Jaye! Iron is certainly something that we need, but in small quantities. The copper/boron/iron topic is one that we should all keep an eye on as research is constantly emerging. In this blog, I recommend a multivitamin (mostly for the B vitamins) in anticipation of a big night out. But everyday use is something that would be more individualized. xo, Kris
Thanks for the awesome tips Kris! I start every day with a blended green drink (well, almost every day!). Ginger aid sounds like a great combo as I am crazy for fresh ginger. But I’ll probably blend rather than juice.
I bought Crazy, Sexy, Juice about 3 weeks ago. I thought my juices were good but seemed to go through produce like crazy. Now I have this book, and the juices are sooo good! Even my husband, who believes vegetables are evil, loves the juices. I am not over using vegetables, and am therefore, saving money. I am working my way through the book, making notes, additions,etc. Thank you Kris Carr! I also have 2 other books of yours which I love.
Thanks SO much for all your Crazy Sexy Tips! You’re such a great resource for straightening up my mind/body act! ?
Thx for your helpful tips. I have always had great results by drinking lots of water & taking a B-complex supplement before I indulge in alcohol at parties. Of course there is the old standby – moderation 😉
Thank you so much for being you. This time last year I was diagnosed with tubular breast cancer, had two lumpectomies and radiotherapy. Your blog, positive attitude and great advice has helped me so much! I work as an holistic Therapist in my local hospice here in the U.K. And have recommended your website to many of my clients and their families. One guy in his forties with a brain tumour has embraced your philosophies and is currently in remission. Blessings and thanks to you for the wonderful work you do x