Protecting Your Gut Health During Summer Heatwaves

As cities like Mumbai, Pune, Gujarat, and others in India experience scorching heatwaves, it's crucial to pay attention to your gut health. One of the body's functions most affected during hot summer months is the digestive system. The extreme heat can slow down metabolism, making it challenging to digest high-calorie and fatty foods. Moreover, the thriving bacteria and microbes in high temperatures increase the risk of food-borne infections and digestive issues.

Street Food Caution

During this time, it's essential to be cautious about consuming street foods, especially from vendors whose hygiene practices may not be optimal. Items like pani puri, ice cream, and lemonade from street vendors can pose risks due to contaminated water, leading to digestive issues such as cramps, dysentery, and pain.

Street Foods to Avoid

Doctors advise avoiding certain street foods to protect your health during summer:

1. Cut Fruits and Vegetables:

 Uncovered fruits and salads can quickly become breeding grounds for bacteria in the heat, leading to food poisoning and gastrointestinal issues.

2. Seafood:

 Highly perishable seafood can spoil rapidly in the heat, increasing the risk of bacterial infections and parasitic diseases.

3. Dairy-Based Desserts:

 Dairy products like ice cream and milkshakes require proper refrigeration to prevent bacterial growth, consuming them when not stored correctly can cause stomach upset.

4. Grilled Meat Skewers and Kebabs:

 Ensure meat is thoroughly cooked to avoid harmful bacteria like E. coli and Salmonella.

5. Chutney:

 Homemade or unpasteurized condiments can be sources of contamination if not handled properly.

6. Lemonade:

 Fresh beverages can pose risks if made with contaminated ingredients.

Tips for Gut Health

To maintain gut health during summer and avoid digestive issues:

• Eat home-cooked nutritious food.
• Ensure proper sanitation and personal hygiene.
• Wash hands before eating.
• If your child wants to indulge in street food like chaat, prepare it at home under hygienic conditions.

In case of digestive issues like typhoid, jaundice, or dysentery, seek prompt medical attention for quick recovery. Follow prescribed medication, offer oral rehydration solutions as needed, and focus on maintaining a healthy diet and hygiene practices.

This post aims to raise awareness about the importance of gut health during summer, especially when consuming street foods, and provides practical tips for maintaining digestive wellness.