Mumbai’s intense summer heat is affecting digestion and gut health. With predictions of heatwaves and the summer heat intensifying, experts are witnessing a noticeable increase in stomach-related complaints.
They believe they are linked to contaminated food, dehydration, and summer-related lifestyle changes. What often seems like simple acidity or a viral stomach bug is now linked to heat-accelerated bacterial contamination and dehydration-related gut sensitivity.
According to Dr Rishikesh Malokar, Senior Consultant Gastroenterologist, Hepatologist and Therapeutic GI Endoscopist, Zynova Shalby Hospital, Mumbai, “Mumbai is witnessing a nearly 50% surge in stomach infections during the ongoing heat wave in people aged 30-45. Many are coming with complaints like loose motion, nausea, vomiting, and weakness.”
While people might initially assume these symptoms to be viral, the underlying cause is actually heat and is often bacterial contamination in food and water due to the scorching heat. This is because warm weather can create the perfect stage for bacteria to grow that then contaminate the food and water. Hence, it is necessary to have freshly cooked home food, avoid street food, cut fruits left in the open, or icy lollies and gollas from street vendors.
While it goes without saying, another thing to keep in mind is to ensure that you are staying hydrated, whether you are indoors or outdoors. Not common knowledge, but dehydration weakens the gut lining, making it more vulnerable to infections.
Some other factors to remember are that sudden transitions between heat and air conditioning can impact digestion and immunity, and should be taken into consideration. Sudden shifts between extreme heat and air-conditioned environments can stress the body, affecting digestion and weakening immunity. These rapid temperature changes may disrupt gut function and make individuals more prone to infections and stomach-related issues that will need timely intervention.
Dr Shubham Jain, Gastroenterologist, Apollo Spectra Hospital, Mumbai, said, “Mumbaikars are struggling due to extreme heat. Higher temperatures create ideal conditions for bacteria to grow in food and water, increasing the risk of gastrointestinal issues. There is a 30% surge in gastrointestinal infections, which makes it worse when dealing with the heat. In a month, we are seeing 3 out of 10 patients who have symptoms like dehydration, loose motions, bloating, gas, acidity, nausea, vomiting, and weakness. These are often mistaken as viral infections but are commonly caused by bacterial contamination due to extreme heat and need timely attention. Taking simple precautions can help protect gut health and prevent infections during heatwaves.”
During peak summer, maintaining strict food hygiene, staying well-hydrated, and avoiding uncovered or street foods can reduce the risk of such infections.
