This archive report was first published on 25 September 2019.
On September 25, 2019, a German court made a ruling that could change the way people view hangovers. The Higher Regional Court of Frankfurt declared that hangovers are a disease, giving employees a legitimate excuse for their morning-after woes.
According to the court, hangovers are a minor disturbance in the body's normal functioning, which is considered an illness. This ruling came in response to a case against an unnamed company that sold 'anti-hangover' products, which the court deemed could not cure hangovers.
"The company, then, cannot claim that its powders and shots can cure hangovers," the ruling stated.
While the ruling may be a win for drinkers worldwide, it's essential to note that the only way to prevent a hangover is to not drink in the first place. However, some physicians suggest that eating foods rich in vitamin A, potassium, and zinc can help replace lost nutrients, while drinking plenty of water in the morning can also alleviate dehydration caused by alcohol.
The ruling comes ahead of Germany's Oktoberfest, a legendary festival celebrating Bavarian culture and flowing pints of beer. The event officially begins on the second-to-last Saturday in September and concludes on October 5.
