I'm sure someone else will do the science bit, if it's ok with you, I'll just give you the cure/prevention.
A hangover is part dehydration and part intoxication.
The liver is your detoxifying organ, once it reaches its limit (usually happens after 12 tequila shooters) it will start producing the toxic substance that produces hangover symptoms.
Cure/prevention (or near enough):
- Take 1 Vitamin B complex tablet of 100mg before you go out.
- Take another while you're out. (yes, friends have carried one in their pockets)
- Take another before bed with 2 glasses of water
Let's be realistic, who would really drink more? However, if you can manage it, go for 1ltr.
Vitamin B is your liver's bestfriend and alcohol destroys it. B15 is the crucial one.
If you already have a hangover, take the vitamin complex three times throughout the day.
resources:
Mindell, E. (1979) The Vitamin Bible
Holford, P. (1997) The Optimum Nutrition Bible