Why Do Hangovers Happen? The Science Behind Your "Never Drinking Again" Moment

We’ve all been there. One too many at a house party, a wild night that seemed like a great idea at the time—until you wake up and it feels like your brain is trying to escape your skull. Head pounding, mouth dry, stomach queasy. That, friends, is the dreaded hangover.

But what actually happens to your body when you drink? And why do some drinks (hi, sugary cocktails) leave you feeling like roadkill while others (ahem, like IST) go easy on you the next day?

Let’s break down the science of hangovers—and why what you drink makes all the difference.

1. Alcohol Dehydrates You (Yes, Even the Juicy Ones)

Alcohol is a diuretic, which is science-speak for “makes you pee more.” This leads to dehydration, which is the culprit behind headaches, fatigue, and that dry, sandpaper tongue feeling.

How IST helps: Hard seltzers like IST have a high water content, which helps counter dehydration. Plus, IST keeps it light with no heavy syrups or artificial junk—so you feel fresher the next morning.

📍Need to restock your fridge? Use our IST Store Locator to find a bottle near you.

2. Your Liver Is Doing Overtime

Your liver breaks down alcohol into acetaldehyde (a toxic compound), then into acetate (which your body can handle). But drink too much, too fast, and acetaldehyde builds up—leading to nausea, sweating, and that “make it stop” feeling.

Pro tip: Moderation and pacing your drinks gives your liver a fighting chance. IST’s 4.5% and 8% options let you choose your buzz without overloading your system.

3. Blood Sugar Goes on a Rollercoaster Ride

Alcohol messes with your blood sugar. That dizzy, weak, low-energy sensation? That’s your body dealing with a sudden sugar crash.

Why IST is better: Unlike sugar-packed cocktails and mixers, IST contains just 2–3 grams of sugar. You still get a burst of flavour—without the metabolic chaos.

4. Sleep Gets Wrecked (Even If You Pass Out)

Alcohol might knock you out quickly, but it messes with your REM sleep—the deep, restorative kind. That’s why you can sleep for 10 hours after a night out and still wake up exhausted.

Hydrate + moderate = better sleep. Try alternating your drinks with water, or keep it lighter with a refreshing IST Spiked Grapefruit instead of your usual sugary shots.

5. Congeners Are the Sneaky Villains

Congeners are chemical by-products of alcohol fermentation. Darker drinks (like whiskey, brandy, and red wine) have more congeners—and cause worse hangovers.

Good news: Clear spirits and drinks like hard seltzers contain fewer congeners. IST uses clean, crisp ingredients and subtle fruit infusions, making it a low-congener option that’s way gentler on your system.

TL;DR: Not All Drinks Are Equal

The science is clear:

• Less sugar = fewer crashes

• More hydration = fewer headaches

• Fewer congeners = less pain

• Moderate alcohol = more good times, less regret

At IST, we've created a drink that lets you enjoy your buzz without compromising your tomorrow. It's flavour-forward, light on the calories, and easier on your body.

One more thing...

If you’re reading this from Karnataka and wondering why your fridge isn’t already stocked with IST—we feel your pain. Home delivery of alcohol still isn’t allowed in the state (sigh).

That’s why we’re pushing for change.📬 Sign our Petition for Home Delivery of Alcohol in Karnataka and help us bring your favourite seltzer to your doorstep.

Until then...

Choose a drink that has your back. Choose IST.

💧 Find your flavour → IST Store Locator✍🏽 Push for progress → Karnataka Petition

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