As a reformed party enthusiast, I can attest that waking up after a wild night filled with guilt and dizziness is no fun. So, when I discovered the potential hangover-preventing properties of Korean pear juice, I had to investigate further.
Enter Brett, a 26-year-old who enjoys alcohol regularly but suffers from intense hangovers. Eager to test this theory, he volunteered to try Korean pear juice before a night out in hopes of alleviating the aftermath.
Before we delve into the results of this experiment, let’s first understand what Korean pear juice is and why it’s touted as a hangover remedy.
What is Korean pear juice?
Made from Korean pears, also known as Asian pears, this juice differs from traditional pear varieties in texture, resembling a crisper, lighter alternative, making it more hydrating and less acidic.
Related Stories
According to Brett, the pear juice has a fruity sports drink vibe, ideal for hot days or post-workouts.
However, nutritionally, pear juice falls short compared to electrolyte-rich sports drinks, which are essential for countering dehydration, a common outcome of alcohol consumption.
What the science says
The buzz around Korean pear juice’s hangover prevention stems from a small study conducted on 14 young men. Published in Food and Chemical Toxicology in August 2013, the study indicated that those who consumed Korean pear juice before alcohol experienced milder hangover symptoms and lower blood alcohol content.
Additionally, research on rats suggests that Korean pear juice can increase the enzyme responsible for breaking down alcohol and reduce blood alcohol levels.
While these findings hint at the potential benefits of pre-drinking Korean pear juice, it’s essential to interpret them cautiously, much like taking a tequila shot with a grain of salt.
So, can Korean pear juice prevent hangovers?
Unfortunately, Brett’s experience did not align with the hype surrounding Korean pear juice. Despite consuming it before alcohol, he encountered his usual hangover symptoms the next day.
While there’s no harm in trying pear juice as a pre-gaming ritual, it’s essential to manage expectations. Relying on proven methods like eating before drinking, moderating alcohol consumption, and staying hydrated with water is still the best approach to prevent hangovers.
Ultimately, for Brett, Korean pear juice may not be the ultimate hangover cure.
