Eating is cheating may have been the drinking mantra during our younger days, but now you’re more likely to find us lining our stomachs with a filling meal before a night out on the town. But even when you’ve wolfed down a bowl of pasta in the vain hope of avoiding a hangover, the next day a nasty one still strikes. Well, try eating a pear before you next go out.

Yes - the humble pear has been found to make those suffering with a hangover feel 21 per cent better, thanks to its juice.

Scientists hired by CSIRO, the Australian government's scientific research organisation, discovered a pear’s juice helps increase concentration, reduces memory loss and decreases the amount of alcohol in the bloodstream. On top of that, it can reduce light and sound sensitivity.

Lead by Manny Noakes, the team looked at the effects of the Asian pear, also known as nashi pear. They are now planning to expand their research by looking at different varieties of the fruit.

“Overall hangover severity, as measured by a 14 item hangover severity scale, was significantly reduced in the Korean (Asian) pear group compared with those having a placebo drink, with the most pronounced effect seen on the specific symptom of ‘trouble concentrating’,” Manny said.

“The effect was only demonstrated if pears were consumed before alcohol consumption.

“There is no evidence that you can consume pears after drinking and avoid a hangover. And remember, the very best way to not get a hangover is to not drink in the first place.”

If you are going to be drinking, it may be wise to choose a beverage with an added health boost. Rather than opting for spirits with sugary mixers or creamy cocktails, ask the bartender for a glass of red or rosé wine – both of which contain large amounts of iron. In comparison, white wine only contains half as much. Meat and leafy green veg are also good sources of iron, meaning a meal out could be a real boost to your blood cells.

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