Strange Causes of Headaches That Have Nothing to Do With Dehydration

13. Artificial Sweeteners: A Hidden Headache Trigger

You might think you're doing your body a favor by choosing diet sodas or sugar-free snacks, but artificial sweeteners—particularly aspartame—have been linked to headaches. While the exact mechanism isn’t fully understood, research suggests that aspartame may interfere with neurotransmitters in the brain, increasing the likelihood of headaches. If you frequently consume sugar substitutes and struggle with headaches, consider eliminating them for a few weeks to see if your symptoms improve.

14. Your Gut Health: The Brain-Gut Connection

Your digestive system and brain are more connected than you think. An imbalanced gut microbiome—caused by poor diet, stress, or antibiotics—can lead to inflammation, which triggers headaches. Some people experience migraines as a response to gut issues like food sensitivities, bloating, or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Eating probiotic-rich foods (like yogurt, kimchi, and sauerkraut) and reducing highly processed foods may improve gut health and lessen headache frequency.