Summer without stomach upset

CEBU, Philippines — We generally think of summer in terms of the sunny days that allow for various fun activities. For young people, the school break all the more makes summertime a most anticipated time of the year. It’s a time for going to bed and waking up late – no time pressure at all.

But the ‘sunny side’ is, of course, only one side of summer. The discomfort from the high ambient temperatures is not the only downside to contend with. Kids, adults, and, even the family dog sometimes run into stomach upsets in summer, when temperatures soar and meals are often eaten outdoors or on the go.

Everyone’s schedules get moved around, and everyone’s stress levels accelerate. Many kids start their very first swimming lesson, many parents have to struggle through traffic to pick everybody up on time. The body is rendered more susceptible to upset stomachs.

Stomach cramps, bloating, gas, overeating, viruses, and heartburn can all become big deals when someone in the family gets hit. Ongoing indigestion and frequent heartburn may require serious help from the doctor. And then the summer fun dissipates into thin air.

Upset systems from food poisoning can also be a danger in warm weather when many people travel and just pick up whatever food is available along the way or in their places of destination. Outdoor barbecues and picnics pose the same risk. Extra caution is necessary.

It is important to keep foods on ice or refrigerated and have these served promptly. Leftovers that may have been sitting in a hot trunk or on the beach or grass too long may better be tossed away. Everyone shall also be watchful of signs and symptoms of upset systems and have these checked out immediately if they become severe.

To reduce flare-ups and cope with reoccurring indigestion, it helps a lot to keep an eye on the menu and avoid foods that trigger symptoms. Serving smaller portions and eating more frequent meals are advisable. Food shall be chewed slowly and completely.

It also helps to avoid smoking, gobbling food, chewing gum and taking carbonated drinks. While exercising is good to tone the body and lower stress levels, exercise shall never be done right after eating. Getting enough rest and sleep is important, as well.

Teas are also known to help. Mint tea is effective in relieving gas and lessening the occurrence of cramping. Chamomile tea works for heartburn sufferers.

Plain unsweetened yogurt helps control diarrhea, supplying healthy bacteria and reducing pain. Apple cider vinegar boosts stomachs with too little acid (mixing a tablespoon with hot water and honey). Rice reduces diarrhea and pain by absorbing fluid and coating the stomach.

Fresh ginger or ginger tea can relieve nausea or vomiting and help reduce seasickness too. Bananas deliver potassium and the stomach settled. Toast helps the stomach to normalize. Fennel delivers antioxidants, reduces gas, and flushes toxins out.

A little caution with food and drink intakes can go a long way in ensuring that the fun part prevails during summer. However, in case of persistent symptoms of diarrhea, vomiting, dehydration or signs of food poisoning, medical attention shall be sought at once. The patient shall see a doctor or be brought to a hospital.