May Dip Recovery: The St Andrews Hangover Guide

Updated Published

Sofia Podini Student Contributor, University of St Andrews

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at St. Andrews chapter and does not reflect the views of Her Campus.

As the countdown starts for this year’s upcoming May Dip, it’s best to be prepared. And no, I don’t mean packing extra warm clothes or remembering to bring a swimsuit, although those are certainly important. I mean replenishing yourself come the day of 1st of May after an all-nighter out has taken its toll. If this is your first May Dip, rest assured alcohol is not needed to enjoy the experience. But if you are anticipating a bit of a headache the next morning, here are some quintessential St Andrews remedies.

Warm Up at Northpoint

Northpoint famously opens up early specifically for shivering students on 1st of May. In the past, it’s been open as early as 5:30 am. A breakfast roll is a May Dip staple in my opinion – which usually will only run you a few pounds and is exactly what you may need after a freezing swim.

Eat an Abundant Breakfast

Beige food and lots of carbs are a crowd favorite remedy so a large breakfast with eggs and toast is perfect and can work wonders. Eggs in particular are often said to help after a night of drinking, thanks to the nutrients that support recovery. Extra bonus if you add in an avocado or banana in there somewhere as the high potassium is said to balance your electrolytes. In St Andrews, bacon rolls and other sandwiches at Munch are a classic and I’m sure this May Dip will be no different.

Grease it Up

Others swear a good helping of greasy food will make you feel better. Saint Sizzle will probably be calling my name next week, but maybe take a page out of Anthony Bourdain’s book and try something spicy, like the drunken noodles at Tanon Thai. According to nutrition experts, greasy and/or spicy food don’t actually help a hangover, but they are hangover classics for a reason.

Sweat it Out

There are a surprisingly abundant number of saunas given our small town, and a good sauna to let out all the toxins (followed by more hydration after) is a good option. See our HerCampus guide to sauna-ing in St Andrews for more.

The ‘Scientific’ Fix

A recent BBC article found that certain foods could be better at improving or alleviating hangovers. It suggests a kimchi and cheese toastie that combines both probiotics and carbs as a good potential cure. Five Acres’ menu does change weekly but they often offer a delicious kimchi and cheddar toastie. Otherwise, head back to East Sands for a delicious warm, ultra-cheesy toastie at the Cheesy Toast Shack.

Hair of the Dog?

Personally I have never tried this strategy after a big night out, but by all means, you do you! A nice pint in the sunny spring in St Andrews is always welcome, after all. Favourites include The Rule’s beer garden and of course classics, The Central and The Crit!

Of course, not drinking alcohol is the best way to avoid a hangover. Although if you do find yourself needing help to recuperate, I hope these St Andrews picks will come in useful. Either way, I wish you all a great May Dip–there’s no better way to end the year and cleanse your academic sins before exams!