With soaring temperatures, the number of cases of stomach infections, associated fever, nausea and food poisoning are on the rise and being reported in health facilities. To avoid food poisoning, Dr Rakesh Kochhar, former head, department of gastroenterology, PGI, Chandigarh, recommends being vigilant about the shelf life of foods and if cooked, ensuring that they do not lie around unrefrigerated for over two hours. “Micro-organisms grow quickly, which can cause gastroenteritis. So, avoid cut fruits and drinking stored water from roadside carts. Do not consume stale cream, mayonnaise, cheese and uncooked or partially cooked vegetables like those in some Chinese dishes and salads. Avoid ice cubes in public places if you are not sure whether the water in it is filtered or not. Meat, chicken and fish have limited shelf life; cook and consume them within a day. Be extra careful with water, milk products and salads, and consult a doctor for treatment,” says Dr Kochhar. Experts warn that if you are drinking too many sodas or carbonated water on hot summer days, you might just end up dehydrating yourself even more. With rising temperatures, the most common problem to hit people is dehydration, especially those who work outdoors, says Dr Vikas Bhutani, Director (Internal Medicine), Fortis Hospital. “Dehydration can manifest in different ways, ranging from giddiness to exhaustion and abdominal discomfort. People should take plenty of fluids, such as coconut water, ORS drinks, fruit juices, buttermilk etc., apart from liberal intake of water to keep them well-hydrated. Avoid soft drinks, especially carbonated beverages, and alcohol. Even water-filled fruits such as melon and watermelon should be taken as a routine to maintain proper hydration,” says Dr Bhutani. “Carbonated, alcoholic and caffeinated drinks cause a lot of water loss through urination. And since you have them chilled, the extreme cold tightens and constricts your blood vessels, reducing loss of body heat,” says Dr Sonia Gandhi, HOD, Nutrition and Dietetics, Fortis Hospital, Mohali. In fact, this dehydration is the reason that stomach-related ailments increase during the summer months, she adds. “Avoid soft drinks that are rich in sugar, preservatives and artificial colours. Diluted phosphoric acid is seen in several aerated drinks or carbonated beverages. These can damage the gastrointestinal lining and cause calcium to leach from the bones. These acids can also trigger stone formation,” says Dr Gandhi. Added sugars can lead to insulin resistance, weight gain and obesity. Regular consumption of sugary carbonated drinks is linked to an increased risk of Type 2 diabetes, heart disease and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Carbonation can cause bloating and gas, with carbon dioxide leading to belching and potentially worsening acid reflux. Some carbonated drinks are loaded with caffeine, which interferes with sleep. Opt for spiced lemonade, coconut water, fruit cocktails, jaljeera and lassi, advises Dr Gandhi. But the body must be kept well-hydrated to naturally regulate your body temperature and prevent heat stroke. “Hydration is essential in maintaining adequate blood volume, energy levels and body functions. Consume water as per your activity level, outdoor temperature and body composition. One quick estimation of dehydration is to check the colour of urine. You want it to be pale and straw-coloured,” says Dr Gandhi. Dr Ranjana Bhatt, internal medicine consultant at Max Hospital, Chandigarh, cautions against drinking pulped juices because they often lack fibre and other essential nutrients present in whole fruits and vegetables, while also being high in sugar and calories. “Watermelon, cucumbers and oranges are extremely nutrient-rich and can help you stay hydrated. Melon, squash and pumpkins are not only easy to digest but also help in reducing the body temperature,” she adds.
