A public health nutritionist has shared how UK summer heatwaves, dehydration, alcohol and ultra-processed foods may trigger IBS symptoms, stomach pain and bloatingHeat can make it worse (Image: FG Trade via Getty Images)The UK has been struck by yet another heatwave, but while many people relish the warmer weather, for a significant number of Brits, the summer heat can trigger a range of troublesome gut problems. That's according to public health nutritionist Dr Emma Derbyshire, adviser to PrecisionBiotics. She said: "Many Brits already suffer from problems such as bloating and stomach pain, but summer could make these issues worse." According to research by PrecisionBiotics, 43% of Brits have experienced bloating and 42% have experienced diarrhoea, with the same amount also experiencing constipation. Plus, one in five adults in the UK suffers from Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). These gut complaints can wreak havoc on work, social plans, sleep and exercise. So why exactly does summer take such a toll on our digestive systems? And what steps can we take to ease the burden?
Adominal pain and bloating are signs
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Five summer habits triggering bloating, stomach pain and IBS Poor sleep Getting a decent night's kip in the heat can be a real struggle. Dr Derbyshire said: "A lack of sleep can impact gut health. In fact, a research review shows that gut dysbiosis - an imbalance in your gut bacteria- worsens sleep while poor sleep worsens gut health." Alcohol A chilled glass of wine or beer on a scorching summer's day might seem like the perfect way to cool off, but it could be doing your gut no favours whatsoever. Dr Derbyshire said: "Alcohol damages gut health by triggering dysbiosis. This can then lead to bloating and gas. I recommend limiting your intake, having alcohol free-days and always pairing alcohol with water." Lack of water Dehydration becomes increasingly common in hot weather, unless you make a conscious effort to drink water regularly. "Dehydration can slow digestion and limit the amount of fluid in the gut, making you more likely to experience constipation and bloating," added Dr Derbyshire. Nearly 44% of Brits admit that not drinking sufficient water throughout the day is their primary trigger for stomach problems, so keep a bottle of water on you at all times. The 'picky bits' picnic Crisps, fried snacks, chocolate and other ultra-processed foods can wreak havoc on your gut. Indeed, 24% of people say these foods trigger digestive changes. Dr Derbyshire said: "Ultra-processed foods are usually high in sugar, salt and saturated fats. Diets high in these foods have been associated with a decrease in microbe diversity in the gut and an increase in inflammation, which is not good news for our gut-brain axis. "The gut and brain are closely connected through the gut-brain axis; a two-way communication network linking the digestive system and the brain. A diet that supports gut health may also help support mood, cognitive function and overall wellbeing."
