Feeling bloated gassy or rushing to the bathroom too often? The soaring temperatures of Indian summers often lead to uncomfortable digestive troubles for many people especially across the northern and central parts of the country. Common complaints like acidity bloating diarrhoea and even food poisoning are frequent when the heat rises.
According to Dr Kunal Das Director and HOD of Gastroenterology at Yashoda Super Speciality Hospital Kaushambi Ghaziabad dehydration is one of the primary reasons your gut struggles in the heat. Eating improperly stored food outside consuming heavy greasy meals or having too many sugary drinks and cold beverages can overload your digestive system.
To help you maintain a happy gut this summer Dr Das suggests some simple yet effective habits. First and foremost drink plenty of fluids. Hydrate well with water buttermilk coconut water and fresh lime juice while steering clear of aerated or artificially sweetened drinks. Staying hydrated will keep your digestive system functioning smoothly and reduce bloating.
Opt for seasonal fruits like watermelon cucumber muskmelon and mangoes which are refreshing hydrating and easy on your stomach. Local produce is more suitable than imported fruits which might not align with your body’s natural seasonal needs.
Sticking to freshly prepared home-cooked food is another must. Avoid street food especially those kept uncovered or reheated multiple times as it can harbor bacteria leading to food poisoning. Meals should be light including simple dishes like dal rice roti and curd. It’s wise to skip heavy oily or fried foods and to be cautious with dishes like biryani paneer and ice creams which are common culprits behind stomach upsets during the hot months.
To keep things cool for your stomach add gut-friendly ingredients like curd mint and fennel seeds to your daily diet. These help soothe the digestive system and can prevent acidity and bloating.
Basic hygiene plays a crucial role too. Dr Saswata Chatterjee Hepatologist and Gastroenterologist at CMRI Kolkata advises washing hands thoroughly eating freshly prepared meals and limiting oily and fermented foods. He also stresses the importance of fibre-rich seasonal fruits buttermilk and coconut water to beat the heat and keep your digestion trouble-free.
When the sun is at its harshest your gut can be more sensitive so wise food choices and small daily habits can make all the difference in avoiding indigestion and staying healthy. While these tips are great to follow always consult a medical professional if you experience persistent issues.
