Stomach upset due to change in blood flow in summer

May 22, Kathmandu.Indigestion often occurs in summers. If you eat food with too much oil, spices or flour, your stomach may get upset. Sometimes, after eating some food, you feel as if the food has not been digested. Sometimes, you may also have problems like nausea and vomiting.

The increase in temperature in summer has a direct impact on the functioning of the body. The body has its own thermodynamics system. Its job is to maintain the body temperature around 37 degrees Celsius. When the environmental temperature in summer exceeds 37 degrees Celsius, the body starts working to maintain its temperature. In such a situation, the body's attention is diverted from digestion and these problems start occurring.

According to a study published in Science Direct, more cases of indigestion are reported in summer than in any other season. Due to this, problems like gas, indigestion, constipation and bloating can be seen. The heat is increasing and stomach related problems have also started.

The intestines do not have enough blood

In summer, the body transfers most of its blood to the skin to control its temperature. With the help of blood, the skin excretes sweat and the body cools itself. Due to this, enough blood does not reach the intestines. Therefore, digestion is difficult.

Why does food take longer to digest in summers?

1. The body focuses on keeping itself cool

When the environmental temperature goes up to 37 degrees or above, the body sweats to keep itself cool. For this, blood flow in the skin has to be increased. Due to this, blood flow in the stomach decreases and food is digested slowly.

2. Digestive enzymes slow down

In summer, the enzymes inside the body, especially the digestive enzymes, are not able to work as actively. Due to this, the food stays in the stomach for a longer time.

3. Lack of water and electrolytes in the body

We sweat a lot in summer. Due to this, electrolytes like sodium and potassium are deficient in the body. Due to this, the stomach muscles become sluggish and the food does not move forward properly and at the right speed.

Why does stomach often get upset in summer?

1. Stale or infected food

Food spoils quickly in summer. If it is not stored properly in the fridge or not reheated, bacteria can grow in it. This can cause stomach upset.

2. Eating out and street food

In summers, things like cut fruits, open water, golgappas, kulfi get infected quickly. Bacteria and viruses can attack the body due to this. This can cause stomach upset.

3. Dirty or contaminated water

We feel more thirsty in summer, but many times people drink dirty or cold water outside in a hurry. This can cause diarrhea, stomach ache and vomiting.

4. Negligence in hygiene

We sweat a lot in summers. This sweat often contains bacteria. This is also present in our hands. If hands are not washed before eating or the utensils used for eating are not cleaned properly, then infection can occur.

What to do if you have indigestion or diarrhea?

Dr. says that both the problems of indigestion and diarrhea require different treatment or help.

What kind of food should we eat in summer?

In summers, one should eat food that is light and fresh and gets digested quickly. Metabolism slows down in this season. Therefore, do not eat fried, spicy and heavy food. Include curd, buttermilk, cucumber, watermelon, bottle gourd, zucchini, moong dal, oats and fruits in the diet. Avoid excess salt and sugar and increase the amount of water. Instead of eating too much at one time, eat small meals several times so that the stomach does not have to face pressure for digestion.

 Is ORS necessary every time diarrhea occurs?

Yes, diarrhea causes loss of water and minerals from the body. ORS helps in maintaining electrolyte balance in the body. This is especially important for children and the elderly.

What to do immediately if indigestion occurs?

If possible, first drink lukewarm water. You can add some fennel or celery to the water. After this, take a walk for a while. Apart from this, curd or buttermilk can also help in digestion. If there is a lot of pain or vomiting, consult a doctor.

Is fasting in summer good for digestion?

If light and easily digestible food is eaten during fasting, then the digestivesystem can get relief. However, it is important to avoid dehydration, especially if you are fasting during hot winds or extreme heat, then keep drinking water.