Rise & Shine, a supplement championed by actress Davinia Taylor and developed by Will Powders, positions itself as an “indulgence recovery aid” designed to mitigate the effects of alcohol consumption. Taken in three stages – before, during, and after a night of drinking – the capsules contain a blend of ingredients purported to protect the liver, stabilize blood sugar, and boost oxygen levels in the bloodstream. A WIRED experiment tasked rugby players with testing the efficacy of the supplement, offering a subjective glimpse into its potential impact. While the results were anecdotal and not scientifically rigorous, the experiment highlighted the complexities of hangover recovery and the individual variability in response to both alcohol and potential remedies.
The Rise & Shine regimen comprises three distinct capsules. The initial blue pill, taken before drinking, contains ingredients like milk thistle, choline, and vitamin B6, aiming to shield the liver from the detrimental effects of alcohol. The second, a pink capsule, is taken at the end of the night and functions as an antioxidant, theoretically maintaining blood sugar levels. Finally, a yellow pill, consumed the following morning, purportedly increases oxygen levels and promotes alertness. One participant, Will, reported feeling “pretty awful” despite using the supplement, noting the inconvenience of remembering to take the pink capsule before bed. He did, however, acknowledge that the regimen encouraged a greater awareness of alcohol consumption, a potential benefit in itself.
Nutritional therapist Brines von Melle affirmed the presence of beneficial ingredients in the Rise & Shine capsules, particularly highlighting milk thistle, choline, and vitamin B6 for liver protection. While endorsing the overall formula, von Melle expressed reservation about the inclusion of anti-caking agents, a common additive in many supplements. This highlights a nuanced perspective on the supplement – while acknowledging its potential benefits, it also underscores the importance of scrutinizing ingredient lists and prioritizing whole-food sources of nutrients whenever possible.
To provide a broader context for the Rise & Shine experiment, WIRED included additional rugby players who employed different hangover prevention strategies. Nathan Steele, who consumed nothing before bed, experienced predictable discomfort the following day. Trevor “Smax,” who hydrated with water, found it necessary to drink copious amounts both before bed and upon waking. Leo, who opted for a Dioralyte rehydration sachet, found it insufficient to fully combat his hangover. These diverse experiences underscore the individual variability in hangover severity and the limitations of any single remedy.
The WIRED experiment, while entertaining, serves as a reminder that hangover experiences are highly subjective and influenced by a myriad of factors. Age, body mass, ethnicity, biological sex, and even individual genetics play a significant role in how alcohol is metabolized and the subsequent hangover symptoms experienced. Therefore, the efficacy of any hangover remedy, including Rise & Shine, will vary considerably from person to person. The experiment’s anecdotal nature precludes any definitive conclusions about the supplement’s effectiveness.
Beyond the specific supplement tested, the article also offers general advice for mitigating the effects of alcohol consumption. Brines von Melle emphasizes the impact of alcohol on gut health, recommending a fiber-rich diet including cruciferous vegetables and fermented foods, especially on the day of drinking. Eggs are highlighted as a good source of choline, a nutrient utilized by the liver to counter the damaging effects of alcohol. This advice underscores a holistic approach to alcohol consumption, focusing not solely on quick fixes but on supporting overall health and well-being. The overarching message remains clear: responsible alcohol consumption is paramount, and no supplement can entirely negate the potential negative consequences of excessive drinking. While products like Rise & Shine may offer some support, they are not a substitute for mindful drinking habits.
