Pre-party Plan: Living the Detox Life

While the plan should always be used before a big night out, it's also important to drink sensibly the rest of the time. Try following these rules:

  • Do not drink more than two units of alcohol on a 'normal' night. A unit consists of: a small glass of wine; 250ml (just under half a pint) of normal-strength beer or a pub measure of spirits. (Remember, strong lagers and large wine glasses can contain up to three units.)

  • Drink water with alcohol. Intersperse every drink with a glass or two of water to help replace the fluid you're losing. This speeds the rate at which your body can detox and prevent dehydration.

  • If you drink more than three drinks a day, have two to three alcohol-free days afterwards to help your body recover.

  • The younger you are the less you should drink. Researchers at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine in London, UK, have found that alcohol's protective effects are highest in those who start drinking in their 30s. Heavy drinking before then cancels out benefits.

  • If you find it hard to cut down, try the herb kudzu (available from health food stores), which is commonly used in China to reduce alcohol cravings. In one UK trial, 64 per cent of volunteers said they were drinking less after taking the herb.

  • Know your toxin count. Some drinks are more damaging than others. Generally, the darker the alcohol the more problems it will cause - brandy is the worst. But also beware young wines. Oaked chardonnays and red wines under three years old contain comparatively higher levels of hangover-producing chemicals.