Why Summer Dehydration Can Lead to Serious GI Complications

Summer heat is not just uncomfortable; it also poses health hazards; one of them being gastrointestinal disturbances.Dehydration occurring in the hot months can wreak havoc on digestion, which eventually develops into a full-blown GI disorder in the summer.Having a thorough understanding of dehydration and the resulting GI health problems will allow you to protect yourself. The common GI problems in summer due to dehydration are: 

Common GI Problems in Summer Caused by Dehydration:

1.Constipation and Bowel Irregularities:

• Dehydration limits the water in the gut, making stool harder and difficult to pass.    
• This causes painful bowel movements and an increased tendency toward constipation.

   2. Acid Reflux and Heartburn:

• Lack of water means digestive juices decrease, badlands start building up.
• Malfunctioning reflux becomes quite common as the body finds it difficult to adequately digest.
  
  3. Nausea and Vomiting:
• A lack of fluids disrupts the electrolyte balance, which can result in nausea and vomiting.
• Vomiting further causes fluid loss, thereby increasing the cycle of dehydration. 
  
  4.Diarrhea and Loose Motions:
• Some have diarrhea as an unusual reaction to dehydration, only to enhance fluid loss.
• Prolonged diarrhea during the summer can quickly grow to become a medical emergency. 
  
  5.Abdominal Cramps and Bloating: 
• Not enough water can slow down the digestive system and thus cause cramps and bloating. 
• This will be especially uncomfortable to those already having GI problems.

How to Prevent GI Problems in Summer:

The number one easiest thing you can do this summer to minimize GI issues is to stay hydrated. Here is what you need to do: 

• Drink Water: Drink 2-3 liters a day (yes, spend the money on a reusable bottle) and even more when spending time outside! 
• Electrolytes: Coconut water, bananas, yogurt, and other foods that replenish your electrolytes are excellent to consume during the summer. 
• Avoid Caffeine and Alcohol: These worsen dehydration- and make GI symptoms worse. 
• Eat Light: Include water-laden fruits, like watermelon, cucumber, and oranges when possible to stay hydrated. 
• Stay Cool: Stay out of the sun as much as you can, and wear loose fitting summer attire to minimize sweating. 

Summer hydration can have devastating effects on your gastrointestinal health, leading to constipation, acid reflux, diarrhea, and this is just naming a few. Staying hydrated and eating water-rich foods is clearly one of the best ways to decrease GI complaints this summer! If you are still struggling with GI symptoms, don't wait! Call to book an appointment at GEM Hospital to learn how to keep your digestive system at its best during the summer months!