Sunburnt? Hungover? Here's What to Eat and Drink to Feel Human Again

Ah, summer. The season of rooftop drinks, beach days, pool parties, and forgetting that SPF 15 is basically scented water (always reach for 50 SPF). One minute you’re sipping sangria and living your best life, and the next you’re sunburnt, dehydrated, and questioning every decision you made in the last 24 hours.

If you’re reading this with a pounding head, a crispy shoulder tan (read: full-blown burn), or a general “why do I feel like a raisin?” vibe—welcome. You’re in the right place. Let’s get you back to feeling like a functional human being with food that heals, hydrates, and doesn’t make you want to crawl back into bed.

The Cardinal Rule: Hydration, but Make It Tasty

Yes, water is essential. But if plain water is giving “hospital chic,” try these hydrating upgrades:

1. Coconut Water (aka Nature’s Gatorade): Loaded with electrolytes like potassium and magnesium—great for rebalancing after too many mojitos.

2. Watermelon Everything: Juicy, sweet, and 92% water. Eat it, blend it, freeze it—just get it in your system. Add a pinch of salt to help retain hydration.

3. Cucumber-Mint Sparkle Water: Thinly slice cucumber and toss it in sparkling water with a few mint leaves. It’s like a spa in your mouth. Bonus: It actually cools your body.

If You’re Sunburnt: Eat to Cool Down (Literally)

You’ve grilled yourself. Time to balance the heat from the inside out.

1. Greek Yogurt with Honey + Berries: Yogurt has probiotics (good for inflammation) and a cooling effect. Add blueberries for antioxidants. You’ll feel cleaner just looking at it.

2. Aloe Vera Juice (Yes, Really): It’s not just for slathering on your shoulders. Drink it (in small doses) to reduce internal inflammation. Mix with lemonade if the flavor weirds you out.

3. Chia Pudding: Hydrating, anti-inflammatory, and surprisingly satisfying. Make it with coconut milk for bonus hydration points.

If You’re Hungover: Salt, Carbs, and Redemption

Alcohol depletes your body of salt, sugar, water, and dignity. Let’s fix at least three of those.

1. Avocado Toast with Egg + Chili Flakes: The holy trinity of hangover recovery: healthy fat, protein, and spice to wake your brain up. Add some sauerkraut if you’re brave—fermented foods help your gut rebound.

2. Miso Soup or Ramen Broth: Salty, comforting, and full of umami. Think of it as a hug from the inside. Go easy on the noodles if your stomach is fragile.

3. Hash Browns + Pickles (Trust Us): You need carbs. You need salt. The vinegar from pickles helps restore electrolytes and settle your stomach. Your taste buds might be confused, but your body will thank you.

Bonus Round: Sip Your Way Back to Life

If food feels like too much effort, here’s what to sip:

• Ginger Tea (for nausea)

• Bone Broth (for nutrients + gut repair)

• Pedialyte or Liquid IV (no shame—just science)

• Iced Green Tea with Lemon (antioxidants + a gentle caffeine bump)

Final Thoughts from the Couch

Listen, summer is meant to be enjoyed. You’re going to get a little crispy. You’re going to overdo it at someone’s backyard tiki party. It happens. But now you’ve got the tools to bounce back—preferably with a giant glass of coconut water in one hand and a yogurt bowl in the other.

Save this post for your next sun-and-sangria spiral. Your future self will be grateful, hydrated, and slightly less red.