In the heat of summer, many of us turn to cold drinks and icy treats to stay cool. But have you ever noticed that digestive issues like stomachaches or diarrhea seem to happen more often during this season?
Hot and humid weather can really take a toll on your digestive system. Today, let’s take a closer look at the main causes of summer stomach problems and how to prevent them.
Common Causes of Summer Stomach Trouble
1. Cold Foods and Weakened Digestion
In summer, we often indulge in cold drinks, ice cream, and chilled noodles.
However, when cold food suddenly enters your stomach, it can trigger spasms, cramps, or digestive distress.
Overconsumption can even slow down digestive enzyme activity, leading to diarrhea.
Tip:
Exposure to cold air on your abdomen for long periods can have a similar effect. Keep your stomach warm and consider taking a mild digestive aid to help recover quickly.
2. Bacterial or Viral Food Poisoning
In summer, food spoils easily. Diseases like typhoid, cholera, or dysentery can be caused by consuming contaminated food or water, leading to acute diarrhea, fever, and chills.
How to Prevent It:
- Wash your hands thoroughly before eating
- Clean all fruits and vegetables carefully
- Discard any suspicious or leftover food promptly
Treatment:
- Antidiarrheal agents like smectite
-
Antispasmodics and gastrointestinal regulators
(If symptoms persist for more than a week, see a doctor immediately.)
3. Acute Enteritis (Severe Gastroenteritis)
Similar to food poisoning, acute enteritis involves inflammation of the intestinal wall due to strong irritation.
You may experience fever, diarrhea, stomach cramps, and also vomiting, muscle aches, or fatigue.
Management:
- Drink fluids only; avoid all solid food until symptoms improve
- Get plenty of rest
(If symptoms worsen or you notice blood in your stool, seek medical attention right away.)
How to Prevent Summer Stomach Aches
Your digestive system becomes more sensitive in summer, but just following a few simple tips can go a long way in keeping you healthy!
✔ Wash Your Hands Often
Use soap and scrub well—don’t give germs a chance.
✔ Drink Lukewarm Water
Avoid ice-cold drinks. Lukewarm water helps reduce digestive shock and keeps you hydrated.
✔ Cook Food Thoroughly
Make sure all meat and seafood are fully cooked to kill bacteria.
✔ Eat Warm Meals
Warm food supports healthy digestion and boosts your immune system—even in the summer.
While cold food might feel like a treat during hot days, overdoing it can lead to stomach trouble.
Just a little extra care can make a big difference in keeping your digestive system strong and healthy.
Stay cool, stay healthy—and enjoy your summer!