The Science Behind Hangovers

Congeners are chemical substances commonly found in alcoholic beverages that give drinks their unique color and taste, and the Mayo Clinic reports they can also contribute to hangovers since they interfere with cell function. Congeners are found in larger amounts in liquors like brandy, whiskey and red wine. They are less likely to be found in clear liquors like vodka and gin. Congeners are either naturally occurring or are added during the production and aging process. What you drink is less important than how much, but there is evidence that darker liquors cause more hangover problems than clear drinks.