Summer is the time of the year when people usually have a lot more outdoor activities.
Unfortunately, it is also the season when more people experience stomach pains caused by different factors such as eating certain types of food or extreme temperatures. Here are 30 tips to keep your stomach pain-free this summer:.
Eating habits
Our eating habits play a crucial role in maintaining our stomach health. Here are some tips:.
1. Eat small frequent meals
Eating small and frequent meals helps in digestion and prevents acid reflux which can cause stomach irritation.
2. Eat slowly
Eating slowly aids digestion by allowing your stomach enough time to produce enough acid and enzymes. This reduces the risk of bloating.
3. Avoid overeating
Overeating can cause pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter, leading to heartburn, acidity, bloating, and nausea.
4. Limit spicy or acidic food
For people prone to acidity, it is important to avoid spicy or acidic food during summer. This includes chili, citrus fruits, high-fat food, and carbonated drinks.
5. Go easy on alcohol
Alcohol can irritate the lining of your stomach, leading to heartburn, acidity, and inflammation. Limit your alcohol intake, and if possible, avoid it altogether.
Stay hydrated
Hydration is key to maintaining our digestive health. Here are some tips:.
6. Drink plenty of water
Drink at least 8 to 12 glasses of water a day to maintain the body’s fluid balance and prevent dehydration.
7. Avoid drinking too much cold water
Drinking too much cold water can cause stomach cramps and affect digestion.
8. Avoid sugary drinks and caffeine
Sugary drinks and caffeine can cause dehydration and trigger acidity and heartburn. Limit your intake of these drinks.
9. Add Mint to your drinks
Mint leaves are a natural coolant that can help soothe an upset stomach. Add some fresh mint leaves to your water, juice, or mocktail.
Prevent Food Poisoning
Foodborne illnesses can cause stomach pain and diarrhea. Follow these tips to prevent food poisoning:.
10. Wash your hands regularly
Use soap and water to wash your hands before and after cooking, before eating, and after using the toilet.
11. Cook food thoroughly
Make sure that your food is cooked thoroughly, especially meat, to kill any bacteria present in the food.
12. Store food properly
Store your food properly, keeping it covered and refrigerated to prevent bacteria growth.
13. Avoid eating from street vendors
Street food is often exposed to dust and unhygienic conditions, making it risky for your stomach. Avoid eating from street vendors.
Take care of your gut health
Probiotics and prebiotics are essential for maintaining gut health.
14. Eat Probiotic food
Eat probiotic food like yogurt, kefir, and lacto-fermented vegetables to promote good gut bacteria.
15. Eat Prebiotic food
Eat prebiotic food such as asparagus, onion, garlic, and bananas to feed the good bacteria in your gut.
16. Avoid antibiotics unless necessary
Avoid taking antibiotics unnecessarily as they can kill the good bacteria in your gut, leading to digestion-related issues.
17. Reduce stress
Stress can lead to inflammation of the gut, causing bloating and stomach pain. Practice stress-reducing activities like yoga, meditation, and deep breathing.
Exercise and stay active
Exercise promotes digestion and can prevent stomach-related issues. Here are some tips:.
18. Exercise regularly
Exercise regularly as it can stimulate your digestive system, reducing the risk of constipation and bloating.
19. Avoid intense exercise after eating
Avoid intense exercise after eating as digestion requires blood flow to the stomach, and exercising can reduce blood flow, leading to indigestion.
20. Stay active
Stay active and avoid sitting for too long. Take frequent breaks and walk around to promote blood flow and digestion.
Sleep well
A good night’s sleep is essential for overall digestive health. Here are some tips:.
21. Sleep for 7-8 hours
Sleep for 7-8 hours to allow your body enough time to repair and regenerate.
22. Avoid eating late at night
Avoid eating late at night as it can lead to acid reflux, heartburn, and indigestion.
23. Sleep on your left side
Sleeping on your left side can reduce the risk of acid reflux and heartburn, as it keeps your stomach below the esophagus.
Combat heat-related issues
Extreme temperatures can increase the risk of heat stroke, dehydration, and other stomach-related issues. Here are some tips to prevent them:.
24. Stay hydrated
Drink enough water to prevent dehydration, especially during hot weather.
25. Avoid outdoor activities during peak hours
Avoid outdoor activities during peak hours when the sun is strongest.
26. Wear comfortable clothes
Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows your skin to breathe to prevent heat-related issues.
27. Avoid oily and spicy food
Avoid oily and spicy food during hot weather, as they can lead to indigestion and other related complications.
28. Take breaks in the shade
Take breaks in the shade to cool off and reduce the risk of heat stroke and dehydration.
29. Protect your stomach from the sun
Protect your stomach from the sun with sunscreen or by wearing a hat to avoid sunburn and other related skin issues.
30. Carry a First aid kit
Carry a first aid kit with you, including medications for fever, diarrhea, and dehydration, in case of emergencies.