Why digestive diseases increase during hot weather

As the mercury rises and temperatures soar, it is not just our mood that is affected by the scorching heat. Hot weather can profoundly impact our bodies, including our digestive system. 

It has been observed that cases of digestive diseases tend to increase during the summer months. If you are confused about why your body is more likely to catch diarrhoea or other digestive diseases, this article is for you.

Dehydration

One of the primary reasons for increased digestive diseases during hot weather is dehydration. When the weather is hot, our bodies perspire more to regulate temperature. This excessive sweating can significantly lose fluids and electrolytes, disrupting the delicate balance necessary for proper digestion. 

Dehydration can cause constipation, as the body tries to conserve water by drawing it from the colon, leading to harder stools and difficulty passing them. Dehydration can also increase the risk of gastrointestinal infections, as it compromises the immune system's ability to fight off pathogens.

Food safety and spoilage

Food safety is another factor contributing to the rise in digestive diseases during hot weather. Higher temperatures create a favourable environment for the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms that can cause foodborne illnesses. 

Picnics, barbecues, and outdoor events are more common during hot weather, and improper handling and storage of food in these settings can lead to contamination. Consuming contaminated food can result in various gastrointestinal issues, such as food poisoning, diarrhoea, and vomiting.

Altered eating habits

Hot weather often brings changes in eating habits. People tend to consume more cold beverages, ice cream, and other chilled foods to beat the heat. While these may provide temporary relief, excessive consumption of such foods can disrupt the digestive process. 

Cold beverages can slow down digestion by constricting blood vessels in the gastrointestinal tract, reducing the efficiency of nutrient absorption. Overindulgence in fatty and greasy foods at summer barbecues can also lead to digestive discomforts, such as acid reflux, heartburn, and bloating.

Decreased physical activity

Many people prefer to stay indoors or engage in less physically demanding activities to avoid excessive heat exposure during hot weather. This decrease in physical activity can negatively impact digestion. Regular exercise promotes healthy digestion by stimulating intestinal contractions and aiding in food movement through the digestive tract.

Effects of heat stress

Heat stress is a condition that occurs when the body is unable to regulate its internal temperature effectively. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can cause heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke. These conditions can have a detrimental effect on the digestive system. 

Heat exhaustion, characterised by heavy sweating and dehydration, can lead to nausea, vomiting, and gastrointestinal disturbances. Heatstroke, a life-threatening condition, can result in severe dehydration, organ damage, and gastrointestinal bleeding.

Impact of stress and anxiety

Hot weather can also contribute to increased stress and anxiety levels, which can exacerbate digestive problems. Many people experience discomfort and irritability due to the oppressive heat, disrupted sleep patterns, and increased activity during the summer months. 

Stress and anxiety can negatively affect the digestive system by altering gut motility, increasing inflammation, and disrupting the balance of beneficial gut bacteria. These factors can contribute to conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and other functional digestive disorders.

Hot weather brings with it a multitude of factors that can disrupt the balance of our digestive system. It is essential to avoid unhygienic street foods and remain extra cautious about drinking water during heatwaves to remain healthy through hot seasons.

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