What to eat in the heat? Gastroenterologist's tips for comfortable digestion

In the heat, many intuitively try not to eat heavy food and prefer dishes with lots of fresh vegetables. This is the right choice, which helps to maintain the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract and overall well-being.

Alexander Khvoshchev, a gastroenterologist at the Kandinsky Clinic, will explain why the digestive system needs light food in the heat and which foods should be consumed.

What is changing in the digestive tract?

In hot weather, the body spends a lot of energy to maintain optimal body temperature, so the processes associated with the digestive tract slow down. This includes the production of juices and enzymes, as well as peristalsis — contractions of the digestive tract.

Heavy food in such conditions can cause discomfort, and in people with chronic gastrointestinal diseases it can worsen the symptoms.

What kind of heavy food is it?

• Fried and fatty — it takes a long time to digest. Just like red meat. Heat and steaks don't go well together.
• Sweet, including drinks — dehydrates the body, causes fermentation and is difficult to digest. This is a reason to reduce the number of desserts and choose regular water instead of cola.
• Coffee — due to the diuretic effect, the body dehydrates. However, a couple of cups of Americano after a meal is unlikely to hurt.

Then which food should I choose?

• Vegetables, Cucumbers and Peking cabbage, especially, contain nutrients and help maintain adequate hydration levels.
• Fruit, first of all, watermelons and melons also replenish the need for fluids and provide energy thanks to fructose.
• Greens it provides fiber, saturates for a long time.
• Fish (protein source) is easily digested.

Who should I contact for nutritional advice and complaints of intestinal discomfort?

You can get all the necessary gastroenterology services at the Kandinsky Clinic. We offer a full range of examinations, diagnostics and treatment of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, including stomach, gallbladder, colon, pancreas and liver.

The Department of gastroenterology has its own laboratory, which allows you to take tests and undergo the necessary examinations immediately after consulting with a doctor. Our specialists apply a multidisciplinary approach, combining the efforts of gastroenterologists, nutritionists and other experts to develop an individual treatment plan.

If you experience discomfort in the digestive tract, not only in hot weather, contact the Kandinsky clinic. We offer a comprehensive approach to diagnosis and treatment to help you maintain your health and well-being in all conditions.