As temperatures soar, the body's digestive system may slow down, resulting in various digestive issues. Therefore, it is crucial to prioritise your eating habits and embrace a healthy lifestyle to combat the heat effectively.

Gastroenteritis: It is a prevalent condition that affects people of all ages during the summer season. It presents various symptoms, including vomiting, diarrhoea, blood in the stool, dehydration, and abdominal pain. Jaundice is another troublesome issue that can cause distressing symptoms such as a pale complexion, nausea, and hepatitis. This problem arises from consuming unhygienic food and contaminated water. Additionally, summer can bring about a high-grade fever known as typhoid, which manifests as pain, fatigue, weakness, stomach ache, and headaches. Contaminated food can also lead to cases of food poisoning.

Tips for preventing tips to prevent indigestion during summer months:

While we may not have control over seasonal variations and temperature changes, experiencing stomach and indigestion problems during the summer doesn't have to be inevitable. By making minor adjustments to our diet and lifestyle, we can effectively avoid such issues. Here are some helpful tips:

1. Remember to keep yourself hydrated, especially during the summer months. Sweating can lead to dehydration if you don't drink enough water. Dehydration can also result in the loss of essential minerals, which can hinder digestion. It is recommended to consume a minimum of 2.5 - 3 litres of fluids per day. In addition to water, you can opt for refreshing options like nimbu pani (lemonade), coconut water, buttermilk, and aam panna (green mango drink) to maintain proper hydration.

2. Opt for lighter food options and reduce your portion sizes. Incorporate fibre-rich foods into your diet, such as fresh fruits, vegetables, pulses, beans, and legumes. Instead of consuming heavy meals, aim for regular, smaller meals to aid digestion. Don't forget to include dry fruits and nuts in your diet. Another nutritious option is dates, which are packed with protein, iron, fibre, calcium, and vitamins.

3. Consuming fruits and vegetables is vital for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Particularly during the summer season, it is beneficial to focus on varieties that have high water content. In addition, it is advisable to choose stomach-friendly options that aid in digestion. Incorporate tomatoes, cucumbers, apples, pears, watermelons, and muskmelons into your diet as they are known to be gentle on the stomach and promote a healthy digestive process.

4. It is essential to prioritise incorporating daily exercise into our routine. Engaging in regular physical activity not only enhances our digestion but also promotes overall well-being.

5. During the summer months, incorporating probiotics into your dietary routine can promote smoother digestion, as they are rich in beneficial bacteria that support gut health. Consider including foods such as yoghurt or kombucha, which are excellent sources of probiotics.

6. Opt for healthier alternatives and avoid deep-fried foods. The nature of the food we consume and the quantity we consume plays a significant role in our digestion. It's advisable to stay away from oily or greasy foods that are notorious for being difficult to digest and may result in bloating or acidity.

7. Drinking alcohol can exacerbate dehydration, which can have negative effects, particularly during the summer months.

8. During the hot summer months, it's crucial to store food properly to prevent the growth of bacteria and other microbes. These microorganisms are known to be the main culprits behind food-borne infections and digestive issues. By implementing appropriate food storage practices, you can effectively combat the proliferation of these harmful microbes.

9. Maintaining proper hydration is essential, but it is advisable to steer clear of sugary beverages. Excessive sugar intake has been associated with adverse effects such as bloating, gas, and exacerbation of irritable bowel syndrome symptoms. Additionally, beverages like coffee, alcohol, and carbonated drinks can further irritate the stomach lining and worsen digestive issues. Opting for clear fluids is the optimal choice to promote overall well-being.

10.  Antacids and acid blockers offer respite from digestive issues, yet excessive use can exacerbate the situation. Hence, it is advisable to moderate your intake of these medications for stomach ailments during the summer season. Opt for mindful eating practices and refrain from relying on over-the-counter drugs.

Conclusion:

During the summer months, it is essential to be mindful of your lifestyle and eating habits as the digestive system tends to be more sensitive. The increasing temperatures directly impact our digestive system, causing it to slow down and leading to various stomach problems. Fortunately, the symptoms of these digestive issues are temporary and can be easily dealt with. Nevertheless, it is crucial not to disregard these symptoms, as they have the potential to develop into more serious health complications. It is important to be conscious of your eating habits and attentive to your body's signals. If things appear to be spiralling out of control, it is advisable to seek immediate medical attention from a doctor.