What Actually Causes Hangovers? (Hint: It’s Not Just Dehydration)

Waking up with a pounding head, dry mouth, and a vague sense of regret? You’re not alone. But despite the hangover being a universal experience, most people still think it boils down to one thing: dehydration. Spoiler alert: it’s not that simple.

Let’s break it down, in a way your brain can handle right now.

1. Acetaldehyde: The Toxic Trouble-Maker

When your body breaks down alcohol, it first converts it into a compound called acetaldehyde. This stuff is seriously toxic. Your liver works hard to neutralize it, but when it’s overloaded, the toxins hang around longer *cue headaches, nausea, and that 'never drinking again' promise*.

Science-backed support: Wiser includes L-Cysteine, an amino acid that helps your liver speed up the breakdown of acetaldehyde, so your body can get rid of it faster.

2. GABA Rebound: Why You Feel Anxious or Down

Alcohol temporarily boosts GABA, a calming neurotransmitter. But when the buzz wears off, your brain experiences something called GABA rebound, leaving you overstimulated, anxious, or just plain off.

That’s why Wiser isn’t just about hydration, it’s about restoring balance.

3. Inflammation & Oxidative Stress

Drinking alcohol triggers an inflammatory response in your body, which can lead to fatigue, brain fog, and general 'ugh'.

Wiser contains antioxidants like Milk Thistle and Prickly Pear to reduce oxidative stress and support natural detox pathways.

Real People, Real Relief

We asked over 70 testers to try Wiser after a night out. From gym lovers to tired parents, the feedback was clear: fewer headaches, clearer mornings, better days.

'I woke up feeling fresh after 4 glasses of wine. That hasn't happened since I was 21.'

-Megan, Wiser customer

The Bottom Line

A hangover isn’t just about being dehydrated. It’s about what’s happening inside your body on a biochemical level. Wiser was created to target the root causes, not just mask the symptoms.

Got your own before-and-after story? Tag us @wisersupplements or drop a review. We’re building this movement with people like you.