Summer brings with it a wave of ailments and health conditions that often lead to severe risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion, and stomach infections that often lead to headaches. While most of us heavily rely on medications to treat sudden headaches, do you know there are certain simple foods and drinks that can fix these heat-induced headaches? Read on to find out more.
What causes frequent headaches in summer?
Exposure to extreme sunlight or heat often leads to dehydration due to excessive sweat, which drains out minerals from the body. This further leads to severe headaches, heat exhaustion, digestive problems and weakness, electrolyte imbalance, and low blood sugar, to name a few. However, the impact of excessive sun exposure may differ from one individual to another, but these factors lead to dilation of blood vessels and increased body temperature, triggering tension or migraine-like pain. To fix and prevent these headaches, there are certain foods that often work like an alternate therapy, as they replenish lost fluids and essential minerals like potassium, magnesium, and sodium, which help in calming the body temperature and restoring balance. Here are a few simple ways to fix summer-induced headaches.
Watermelon
Packed with water (over 90%) and natural electrolytes, watermelon is the ultimate summer fruit. It helps rehydrate the body quickly and delivers magnesium and potassium, which are crucial in preventing heat-related headaches. Enjoy it chilled for a refreshing headache-relief snack.
Cucumber
Cucumbers are high in water content and have mild cooling properties. They help reduce body heat and combat dehydration—two major triggers of summer headaches. Add slices to your water or salads, or eat them raw with a sprinkle of salt and lemon.
Coconut Water
Nature’s electrolyte drink, coconut water, is rich in potassium, magnesium, and sodium. It quickly restores hydration and helps balance minerals lost through sweat, making it excellent for preventing or easing tension and migraine headaches.
Magnesium-rich foods are essential for muscle function, heart health, and bone strength. Leafy greens like spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are top sources. Nuts and seeds, especially almonds, cashews, pumpkin, and sunflower seeds, offer a magnesium boost. Whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, and oats also help meet your daily needs. Legumes such as black beans, lentils, and chickpeas are excellent plant-based sources. Dark chocolate, avocado, tofu, and bananas provide smaller but significant amounts. Including these foods regularly in your diet can support energy production, reduce muscle cramps, and improve sleep quality naturally. Aim for variety for optimal intake.
Mint Leaves
Mint has a natural cooling effect and can relax tense muscles. Brew a mint tea or crush the leaves into your water or smoothies. The menthol in mint is known to ease headaches by calming the nerves and promoting circulation.
Bananas
Sweating in the heat often leads to potassium loss, which can trigger headaches. Bananas are rich in potassium and natural sugars, providing quick energy and mineral balance. They’re a great on-the-go snack that helps stabilize blood pressure too.
A vegetable bowl is prepared at the new Victory Fresh at Fort Jackson in Columbia, S.C., on Wednesday, March 5, 2025. Celebrity chef Robert Irvine has been enlisted to overhaul the dreary mess hall menus that drive many soldiers to less-healthy choices. (Sean Rayford/The New York Times)
Yogurt
Yogurt is loaded with calcium and B vitamins, both of which support nerve function and reduce the likelihood of headaches. It also has a cooling effect on the stomach and body. Have it plain, as a smoothie base, or mix it with fruits like berries and honey for a refreshing treat.
Lemon
Lemon helps alkalize the body, aids in digestion, and is an excellent source of vitamin C. It also acts as a natural detoxifier. Mix fresh lemon juice with cool water and a pinch of salt or sugar to make a quick rehydration drink that combats heat-related fatigue and headache.