Source: https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/health/
Think twice before indulging in
pani puri, ice cream, and lemonade bought from street vendors as contaminated
water in these items can cause digestive trouble.
As Mumbai, Pune, Gujarat among
other cities in India reel under heatwave conditions, it's important to take
care of your gut health. Among the
body functions that are most affected during hot summer months is your
digestive system. During extreme heat conditions, our metabolism tends to slow
down finding it hard to digest high-calorie and fatty foods. In high
temperatures, bacteria and microbes thrive and this can increase risk of
food-borne infections and digestive issues. Eating street foods without
considering hygiene factors can be problematic during this time as one can
contract typhoid, jaundice and other gut health issues. (Also read: What does stress do to your gut
health? Here’s all you need to know)
Expert points out that the increasing number
of typhoid and jaundice cases are linked to contaminated water used in the ice
cream or pani puri which in turn can also cause abdominal distress such as
cramps, dysentery, and unbearable pain.(Pinterest)
Avoid buying foods like pani
puri, ice cream, and lemonade from street vendors as contaminated water used in
these items can cause digestive issues such as cramps, dysentery, and pain.
STREET FOODS TO AVOID THIS SUMMER
Dr Manjusha Agarwal, Senior
Consultant Internal Medicine Gleneagles Hospitals Parel Mumbai shares a list of
street foods one must consider avoiding this summer to protect health.
1. Cut fruits and
vegetables: While fresh fruits and salads may seem like a healthy
choice, those that are left uncovered and exposed to the heat can quickly
become a breeding ground for bacteria. Consuming contaminated fruits and
vegetables can lead to food poisoning and gastrointestinal issues.
2. Seafood: Fish
tacos, ceviche, and shrimp skewers are popular street food items, especially in
coastal regions. However, seafood is highly perishable and can spoil quickly in
the heat, increasing the risk of foodborne illnesses like bacterial infections
and parasitic diseases.
3. Dairy-based desserts: Ice
cream, kulfi, and milkshakes are popular summer treats. However, these desserts
require proper refrigeration to prevent bacterial growth. Consuming dairy
products that have been left out in the heat can lead to stomach upset and
foodborne illnesses.
4. Grilled meat skewers and
kebabs: They may be a staple of summer street food
festivals, but they can be risky if not cooked thoroughly. Undercooked or
improperly handled meat can harbour harmful bacteria like E. coli and
Salmonella, causing severe food poisoning.
5. Chutney: Street
food vendors often use homemade or unpasteurized sauces, chutneys, and
condiments to enhance the flavour of their dishes. These condiments can be a
hidden source of contamination if not stored and handled properly. Consuming
contaminated sauces and condiments can increase the risk of foodborne
illnesses.
6. Lemonade: Freshly
squeezed juices, lemonades, and other beverages may seem refreshing, but they
can pose a risk if made with unpasteurised or contaminated ingredients.
Unpasteurised juices can lead to infections and gastrointestinal problems.
