Cleanse & Detox

How to Clean Your System of Alcohol in 24 Hours?

BY PUREHEALTH RESEARCH | February 6, 2024

Wondering how to clean your system of alcohol in 24 hours? Alcohol is one of the most consumed substances globally. After drinking it, it slowly leaves your body through your breath, sweat, and urine. Although you can’t force it out of your system, some things may enable it to be flushed out more quickly.

There is absolutely nothing wrong with taking an alcoholic drink every now and then. Your body naturally digests and rids itself of this toxin. Long-term or overuse, however, can slow down the process and might negatively impact your heart, liver, kidneys, and gut health. Since alcohol is a toxin that can prove harmful to the body if not expelled, getting rid of it as soon as possible is ideal. Through its natural processes, the body can remove this substance from within. 

However, there are times when one might want to accelerate this process and clean their system of alcohol in a set amount of time. Although difficult, it’s not unachievable. It’s possible, provided you are committed and willing. In this article, we will go over how you can achieve an alcohol-cleaning of your system in 24 hours, as well as provide information about the best alcohol detox drinks you can try. Continue reading to learn more. 

How Long Does Alcohol Stay in Your System?

Normally, alcohol remains in your body for several hours up to a couple of days after consumption. How long it stays detectable mainly depends on the amount consumed, the kind of test used to detect it, and the various biological factors of an individual. Some factors include:

• Liver Health – As the liver processes alcohol, chronic drinking or problems with your liver may slow down processing. This extends alcohol presence.
• Age – The bodies of older people process alcohol more slowly compared to young ones. So, alcohol can stay longer in their systems.
• Food – Technically, the presence of food makes the absorption of alcohol slow. Therefore, if you take alcohol while full, it makes alcohol stay longer in your system. But it’s important to note that, at the same time, food can help reduce alcohol hangovers.
• Weight – Heavier bodies dilute alcohol faster, making its removal quick. Lighter people retain alcohol longer.
• Gender – Typically, women have less water in their bodies to dilute alcohol as compared to men. Women can test positive for alcohol longer. However, this isn’t true for everybody.
• Metabolism – People with fast metabolisms eliminate alcohol faster than their counterparts.

On average, alcohol is detectable^[1] in:

• Breath for 12-24 hours
• Urine for 12-24 hours or more after intense drinking
• Blood for 6-12 hours after last drink
• Hair follicle for up to 90 days
• Saliva for up to 12 hours

How to Clean Your System of Alcohol in 24 Hours?

Knowing how to clean your system of alcohol in 24 hours can be helpful. However, as we have said, how fast you can eliminate this substance depends on various factors, including age, gender, food, and so on. 

Before we talk about how to clean your system of alcohol in 24 hours, it’s important to know that it’s not recommended to flush alcohol from your body on your own. Are you an occasional or social drinker? You might stop taking liquor without much concern. However, if you are a heavy drinker, always flush alcohol in a rehab or by following a specific program. Why, you might wonder? Alcohol withdrawal might make it difficult for your body to function properly. Some of the symptoms you can develop include:

• Mood swings
• Too much sweating
• Vomiting
• Headaches
• Low energy
• Poor coordination
• Poor appetite
• Irritability
• Fever

So, how do you flush alcohol out of your system? Here are some tips for you.

1. Stay Hydrated

Your liver processes alcohol. As the liquor breaks down, it generates a metabolite known as acetaldehyde. This chemical can cause damage to your liver and also slow down the metabolism process. Taking lots of water increases your rate of urination, which helps flush acetaldehyde from your body.

Not only does water eliminate alcohol, but it also ups your hydration level. This aspect is important because liquor usually dehydrates you. Drowsiness and headache are other side effects that may occur due to dehydration caused by alcohol.

Of course, you should have at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water daily. But since you want to flush out alcohol from your body fast, try doubling that amount. This approach might help remove the last traces of liquor in your system. You can do this for a day or two. After that, you can go back to taking eight glasses a day. If you don’t like plain water, add some lime, lemon, or orange. You should also take sports drinks that contain electrolytes other than water. Electrolytes are essential minerals that keep you hydrated.

2. Eat Probiotic Foods

Another tip on how to flush alcohol out of your system in 24 hours is by eating healthy foods. After a heavy dose of alcohol, you may feel too nauseous to eat. However, food can increase the rate of alcohol metabolism, especially probiotic foods such as kombucha, sauerkraut, and kefir.

Plus, eating can also ease some symptoms of alcohol withdrawal, such as sweating and shaking. Are you struggling with these symptoms? Try these foods:

• Foods high in vitamin B, like eggs, salmon, and avocado.
• Foods containing antioxidants like fruits, vegetables and nuts
• Whole-grain foods, including brown rice, oatmeal, and whole-wheat bread

You can also aid your body in metabolizing alcohol by avoiding highly processed foods and beverages like white bread, French fries, or soda. Why? Because consuming these items can place extra strain on your liver, making it work harder to break them down. This additional pressure can impede your liver’s ability to efficiently process alcohol within a shorter period. So, steer clear of these foods to support your liver health. Additionally, consider exploring the question: What foods can damage your liver?

3. Get Proper Sleep

Curious about signs your liver is healing? Rest is key! Aim for a minimum of seven hours of sleep each night to allow your body to recuperate fully. Quality sleep aids in replenishing your body’s ability to eliminate alcohol. The longer you sleep, the more rejuvenated your liver becomes, enhancing its capacity to metabolize alcohol effectively, leading to a clearer state of sobriety.

However, while alcoholic beverages might make you feel drowsy, they can also disrupt your ability to achieve restful sleep. Want to have quality sleep? Try these habits:

• Maintain a sleep schedule on weekends
• Switch off your devices and avoid them while trying to sleep
• Create a relaxed sleeping environment that is dark and quiet
• Engage in exercise during the day
• Refrain from consuming heavy meals, caffeine, or sugar before going to bed
• Prepare for bedtime by engaging in relaxing activities such as showering, reading a book, or listening to soothing music
• Expose yourself to direct daylight in the early morning hours helps reset your biological clock, so it naturally wants to sleep at night fall

4. Work Out

Technically, the body can eliminate toxins through sweat, urine, and respiration. Exercising makes you sweat, which helps flush alcohol from your system. It also compels you to take deep breaths, providing more oxygen to your liver and enhancing its performance.

Further, similar to healthy eating, exercise also increases alcohol metabolism and reduces alcohol withdrawal symptoms. It’s important to avoid putting too much stress on your body, but that doesn’t mean you should limit yourself to only mild activities like walking or yoga. Plus, be sure to drink enough water while exercising.

Best Alcohol Detox Drinks

After an evening of drinking, alcohol detox is vital to getting your body back to feeling its best. Certain beverages can help support and expedite the detoxification process. So, wondering what to drink to help flush your system? When preparing for or recovering from a night of drinking, consider taking these alcohol detox drinks:

1. Water With Lemon

Starting your day by drinking warm or room temperature water with fresh lemon juice helps hydrate and alkalize your body. Lemon supports liver function and aids detoxification. Vitamin C also provides antioxidant properties to combat inflammation. Drink this beverage first thing in the morning and continue refilling your water bottle throughout the day.

2. Green Tea 

Now you might be wondering: plain green tea? Technically, green tea^[2] is very rich in natural polyphenols, which support your body’s natural detox system. Polyphenols usually have a direct impact on the liver, which is the body’s primary detox organ. Plus, they act as antioxidants, which help fight free radicals. Opt for organic, loose-leaf varieties. 

3. Pomegranate Juice

Pomegranate juice is an excellent source of vitamin C and contains punicalagin. It has three times more antioxidant activity than red wine and green tea. Additionally, pomegranate juice has higher antioxidant activities^[3] on the body, thus aiding in detoxification.

4. Cucumber Mint Detox Drink

This option is among the best alcohol detox drinks you should consider taking. Mint^[4], combined with antioxidant-rich cucumber and lemon, enhances bile flow in the stomach. Cucumbers also contain high levels of antioxidants and other nutrients, so they assist the body in resisting oxidative stress.

5. Chamomile Tea

Generally, chamomile tea is known to be a drink that helps soothe one’s nerves and aids in unwinding before sleeping. It does contain sesquiterpene lactone^[5], which enables the liver to get ready for detoxification. Apart from that, the herb also has anti-inflammatory effects.

6. Coconut Water 

With its electrolytes and minerals like potassium and magnesium, coconut water^[6] is an ideal detox drink. It also contains antioxidants, amino acids, and enzymes to boost circulation and energy levels. Low in calories and carbs, coconut water replenishes your body after some drinks.

7. Cayenne Pepper, Apple Cider Vinegar, and Lemon

Try this detox drink if you’re feeling rather congested. It will clean your system in no time. Pectin is a water-soluble fiber found in apple cider vinegar, and this substance promotes bowel movement. Studies^[7] have shown that cayenne pepper can stimulate circulation and aid digestion. Aside from making things taste better, the lemon also provides vitamin C, which can help strengthen your immune system. 

8. Grapefruit Juice

A study^[8] indicates that grapefruit is one of those helpful foods. It consists of two main antioxidants: naringin and naringenin. These elements contribute to reducing inflammation and protecting liver cells. Furthermore, these compounds can enhance enzyme activities that break down fats, thus preventing their accumulation in your liver. These properties make grapefruit juice wonderful in helping the liver.

9. Ginger Tea

Ginger tea is another excellent detox drink. It is usually used in most detox diets since it cleans the body by boosting digestion and enhancing blood flow. It also makes one sweat, which aids in eliminating toxins. Research^[9] has also indicated that ginger can help treat various diseases through immunonutrition^[9] and anti-inflammatory reactions.

How to Get Rid of Alcohol Breath in an Hour?

It is possible to reduce alcohol breath odor within an hour. However, complete elimination may take longer, depending on how much you drank. Here are some tips on how to get rid of alcohol breath in an hour:

• Brush Your Teeth Thoroughly – Brushing removes bacteria that cause odors. This oral hygiene practice helps ensure fresh breath no matter what you drink or eat. After brushing, use an antibacterial mouthwash to kill germs.
• Chew Sugar-Free Gum or Mints – Chewing gum produces more saliva, which helps remove odors quickly. Choose those containing xylitol. This natural sweetener prevents the growth of oral bacteria.
• Eat Before and After Drinking – Eating food before taking liquor slows down its absorption, thus minimizing its smell. Go for food rich in protein and fat. Having meals with natural odors such as garlic or onions after drinking can aid in masking the smell.
• Drink Water – Usually, alcohol is a diuretic, and it can cause dehydration, which intensifies the alcohol smell on the breath. Staying hydrated dilutes alcohol, thus reducing the smell.
• Mint and Cloves – These herbs have been used in different cultures for freshening breath because of their strong odor. In particular, cloves contain antimicrobial chemicals that can come in handy when fighting bad odors.
• Use Baking Soda – Baking soda can help neutralize odors, including liquor breath.
• Drink Yogurt – Yogurt has probiotics that can be helpful when it comes to balancing bacteria in your mouth and minimizing bad breath.
• Coffee Beans – They can help mask alcohol breath due to their strong aroma.
• Use Lemon Slices and Parsley – Sucking on lemon slices changes the pH in your mouth, counteracting odors. Parsley contains chlorophyll, usually used as a breath freshener.

Always Clean Your Liver

Your liver works hard. Once you have taken liquor, this vital body part helps process it and eliminates all the toxic substances. That’s why we should look for liver detox symptoms and ways to ensure our liver is healthy, which is essential for overall vitality. An unhealthy liver can’t effectively filter toxins and wastes from your blood. So, how can you ensure your liver is healthy? One of the best ways is by taking quality supplements for cleanse and detox.

You can now take care of your liver naturally thanks to PureHealth Research and experts like Dr. Holly Lucille. They have formulated the Liver Health Formula supplement to provide natural support and enhance optimal liver function. This supplement contains a blend of more than 10 ingredients specifically chosen for their liver-cleansing properties and defensive benefits. Some ingredients include:

• Milk thistle, which is the star ingredient in Liver Health Formula. It contains the antioxidant silymarin, which defends liver cells from damage and supports regeneration.
• Dandelion root stimulates bile production and the removal of toxins.
• Turmeric provides the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties this supplement needs to support your liver.
• Artichoke leaf extract boosts bile production, which is vital for digesting fats and assisting detoxification.
• The amino acid L-cysteine, which is a powerful antioxidant that breaks down harmful free radicals. It also helps regenerate glutathione, the body’s master antioxidant.

Additional Liver Health Formula ingredients like ginger and alfalfa stimulate digestion and help maintain cholesterol levels within a normal range. Therefore, Liver Health Formula is an excellent option for those looking to rejuvenate their liver, support natural detoxification, and promote liver health over the long term.

The Bottom Line

While alcohol takes up to 24 hours on average to fully clear your system, there are several ways to help expedite the process. Let’s review the ones we discussed here:

• Hydrating well by drinking water, juices, and electrolyte drinks flushes out toxins. Aim for one glass per hour.
• Eating probiotic foods like yogurt helps restore gut bacteria to boost detoxification. 
• Getting 7-9 hours of sleep gives your body ample time to refresh and recover. 
• Light exercises like walking, stretching, and yoga help metabolize alcohol.
• Detox drinks like chamomile tea, lemon water, coconut water, green tea, grape juice, and pomegranate juice provide antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that can help your body detox.
• For alcohol breath, use coffee beans, brush your teeth, chew natural sugar gum, drink water, and eat citrus fruits or parsley to help mask odors.

While time is needed to fully sober up, supporting your body with hydration, nutrition, rest, and light activity can help minimize alcohol’s effects and get you back on your feet faster. Be patient, listen to your body, and focus on flushing toxins safely.

References

[1] How long does alcohol stay in your system? (2024, January 16). American Addiction Centers. https://americanaddictioncenters.org/alcohol/how-long-in-system 

[2] Gupta, V. (2015). Oily fish, coffee and walnuts: Dietary treatment for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. World Journal of Gastroenterology, 21(37), 10621. https://doi.org/10.3748/wjg.v21.i37.10621 

[3] Gil, M. I., Tomás-Barberán, F. A., Hess-Pierce, B., Holcroft, D. M., & Kader, A. A. (2000). Antioxidant Activity of Pomegranate Juice and Its Relationship with Phenolic Composition and Processing. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 48(10), 4581–4589. https://doi.org/10.1021/jf000404a 

[4] Rd, K. P. P. (2023, July 11). 8 Health benefits of mint. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/mint-benefits 

[5] Shoaib, M., Shah, I., Ali, N., Adhikari, A., Tahir, M. N., Shah, S. W. A., Ishtiaq, S., Khan, J., Khan, S., & Umer, M. N. (2017). Sesquiterpene lactone! a promising antioxidant, anticancer and moderate antinociceptive agent from Artemisia macrocephala jacquem. BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 17(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12906-016-1517-y 

[6] DiGiacinto, J. (2023, February 14). 7 Science-Based Health benefits of coconut water. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/coconut-water-benefits 

[7] McCarty, M. F., DiNicolantonio, J. J., & O’Keefe, J. H. (2015). Capsaicin may have important potential for promoting vascular and metabolic health: Table 1. Open Heart, 2(1), e000262. https://doi.org/10.1136/openhrt-2015-000262 

[8] Madrigal-Santillán, E., Álvarez-González, I., Sumaya-Martínez, M. T., Gutiérrez‐Salinas, J., Bautista, M., Morales-González, Á., González-Rubio, M. G. Y., Aguilar-Faisal, L., & Morales-González, J. A. (2014). Review of natural products with hepatoprotective effects. World Journal of Gastroenterology, 20(40), 14787. https://doi.org/10.3748/wjg.v20.i40.14787 

[9] Mashhadi, N. S. (2013, April 1). Anti-Oxidative and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of ginger in health and Physical activity: Review of current evidence. PubMed Central (PMC). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3665023/ [10] Calder, P. C. (2003). Immunonutrition. The BMJ, 327(7407), 117–118. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.327.7407.117

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