Why do you get a hangover with lager and not real ale or Guinness?

It is a common misconception that only lager can give you a hangover, whereas real ale and Guinness do not. In reality, any alcoholic beverage, including real ale and Guinness, can cause a hangover if consumed excessively.

The severity and symptoms of a hangover can depend on various factors, such as the amount and type of alcohol consumed, individual sensitivity to alcohol, hydration levels, and overall health. Here are a few reasons why drinking any alcoholic beverage, including real ale or Guinness, can potentially lead to a hangover:

1. Alcohol Dehydration: Alcohol is a diuretic, which means it causes increased urine production and fluid loss from the body. This dehydration can lead to symptoms like thirst, fatigue, headache, and dry mouth.

2. Acetaldehyde Buildup: Alcohol is metabolized in the body to produce acetaldehyde, a toxic substance that can irritate tissues and contribute to hangover symptoms like nausea, headache, and inflammation.

3. Congeners: Congeners are impurities found in alcoholic beverages, especially dark-colored drinks like red wine, whiskey, and certain beers. These congeners can add to the intensity and duration of a hangover.

4. Histamine Release: Some alcoholic beverages, including certain beers and wines, can stimulate histamine release in the body. Histamine is associated with symptoms like facial flushing, headaches, and nasal congestion.

5. Sleep Disturbances: Alcohol can disrupt normal sleep patterns and quality, leading to fatigue, irritability, and difficulty concentrating the following day.

It's important to note that individual sensitivities to alcohol can vary, and what causes a hangover for one person may not necessarily affect another person to the same extent. To minimize the risk of hangovers, it is recommended to drink alcohol in moderation, stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, eat before and while drinking, and pace your drinks by avoiding rapid alcohol consumption. Responsible alcohol consumption is key to enjoying alcoholic beverages without experiencing negative effects like a hangover.