Beer Offers Better Pain Relief Than Paracetamol, Says Science

We've all heard of - and tested - the 'hair of the dog' theory in an effort to fend off a hangover headache. Now, scientists have confirmed that one alcohol drink in particular really could offer pain relief - beer.

Looking at 18 studies, researchers from the University of Greenwich discovered that two pints can help reduce pain by a quarter, the Independent reports.

The reason it works? Apparently, slightly raising your blood alcohol content offers 'a small elevation of pain threshold', the team concluded.

The team aren't sure whether alcohol actually reduces pain by affecting pain receptors in the brain or simply reduces anxiety so pain doesn't feel as strong.

Either way, it sounds like good news to us, although Rosanna O'Connor, director of Alcohol and Drugs at Public Health England, did sound a note of caution, telling the Independent: "Drinking too much will cause you more problems in the long run. It's better to see your GP." Boo.

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