Summer season is here which brings a steep rise in the temperature. This season is more about hydration and skin care but in between that, we must not forget that stomach problems and other health problems also come along with heat and humidity. Our gut health is badly impacted by the rising temperatures which leads to numerous gastrointestinal diseases such as bloating, acid reflux, constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, heartburn, cirrhosis, to name but a few. We need to take good care of our overall health says health experts.
Dr. Ram Ashish Yadav, Medical Officer at Siddhartha Nagar Uttar Pradesh explains that "Since the mercury has reached up to 40-42 degree Celsius, the number of patients with stomach related issues who visit OPD has increased significantly. The rising temperature leads to a weak immune system which increases the spread of bacteria and virus in the body. Event the cooked food gets contaminated after 4-5 hours only. People should be very careful about the food they consume otherwise it will trigger stomach problems."
"The rainy season will arrive after a few days and the spread of bacteria and virus will multiply. This will trigger gastrointestinal infections. So, extra attention is required to fight it effectively," added Dr. Ashish.
This summer you must follow some tips and ways to protect yourself from the heat. Read on to know some tips to safeguard yourself from the rising temperature to prevent gastrointestinal diseases.
- You should consume your food within 4-5 hours after cooking
- Always keep the food and water covered.
- Do not keep chopped vegetables and fruits in the refrigerator overnight
- One should definitely consume 3-4 liters of water throughout the day. If you are engaged in some activity which involves more labour or if you are working outside in sunlight then you must consume at least 5 liters of water in a day
- You should cover your head before stepping out in sunlight. Keep an umbrella, scarf or a cap handy
- Other than water you must consume other refreshing drinks like sugarcane juice, fresh lime water, buttermilk, fresh juices, shakes and smoothies.
- You should also add curd to your diet
- Try to avoid foods loaded with spice and oil. Also, try not to consume processed foods
Another great way to keep your stomach healthy in the summer season is by consuming the variety of fruits available during summers. The summer season offers a variety of fruits which can keep your body cool as they are loaded with water. These fruits will also provide you all the necessary nutrients. You can also consume butermilk.
Summer fruits may include- Watermelon, muskmelon, mangoes, strawberries, plums, papaya, pineapple, guava and many more. You can prepare its juice or shakes and drink a glass daily. This would not only keep you healthy but also gives a fuller feeling.
Also read: Some Amazing Home Remedies To Treat Diarrhea Naturally
You should avoid self-medication if you experience any symptoms related to gastrointestinal diseases. It can worsen the situation. If you experience stomach related discomfort more than two days then you must visit a doctor for proper treatment. You should also not ignore the symptoms for more than two days. During the summer season, you should also give special attention to children. You must safeguard your children from the heat and do not allow them to step outside very often. Also, keep a check on the diet they consume.
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