Why US drinkers face worse hangovers than others

Recent observations indicate that individuals in the United States are suffering from more intense hangovers than their counterparts in the United Kingdom. This trend has sparked discussions among drinkers, particularly those who have traveled between the two countries. A notable factor contributing to this disparity is the method of alcohol preparation and serving in the US, where bartenders often engage in 'free pouring' without strict regulations on drink sizes. In the UK, the legal standard for a shot is approximately 25 ml, while in the US, it can be around 40 ml or more. This difference means that American patrons are likely consuming significantly stronger drinks, which can lead to heightened levels of intoxication and, consequently, more severe hangovers the following day. The increased sugar content in some American alcoholic beverages has also been suggested as a contributing factor to the severity of hangovers. The anecdotal experiences shared by travelers highlight the stark contrast in drinking experiences between the two nations. Many have noted that after returning to the US and indulging in local drinks, they often wake up with debilitating hangovers, prompting discussions about the underlying reasons. Ultimately, the combination of larger drink sizes, higher alcohol content, and potentially added sugars in US beverages appears to be a recipe for more painful mornings after nights of drinking, leading to a growing awareness of the differences in drinking culture between the US and the UK.