Pani Puri to ice cream, 6 street foods you must avoid this summer to prevent digestive issues

 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.