How Does Summer Heat Affect Gut Health? 5 Water-Rich Foods to Prevent Digestive Troubles

Summer heat can significantly impact your gastrointestinal health in various ways. Let’s explore, 5 cool and water-rich foods that can safeguard your digestive health in hot weather.

For many people, summer is the season of outdoor activities, picnics and solo or family vacations. Unfortunately, all these practices- combined with hot weather-can mean that summer is also the season of digestive problems. Excessive heat during summer can bring a higher risk for gastrointestinal problems ranging from constipation to diarrhoea- which can be due to severe factors such as dehydration, reduced appetite, foodborne illnesses, dietary changes or travel-related disruption.

So, today we will look at 5 common water-rich foods that can support your digestive health and prevent summertime gut disruption.

Water-Rich Foods to Boost Digestive Health

• Cucumbers: With a water content of over 95%, cucumbers are exceptionally hydrating. They also contain fibre, which aids in digestion by promoting regular bowel movements and supporting gut health.
• Watermelon: As the name suggests, watermelon is packed with water, making it an excellent choice for staying hydrated during the summer. It also contains digestive enzymes and fibre that can help reduce constipation.
• Tomatoes: Tomatoes are not only hydrating but also a good source of vitamins and antioxidants. Their high water content, combined with fibre, makes them benefical for maintaining proper digestion.
• Coconut Water is an excellent source of electrolytes that help hydrate your body, reduce stomach heat and aid digestion, especially in summer.
• Peppermint is perfect for adding to your foods and drinks in summer as it has cooling properties that help soothe your stomach and aid digestion.