How heatwaves can affect your appetite? Expert answers

How heatwaves can affect your appetite? Expert answers

New Delhi: The fierce heatwave continues to create an impact on lives of people staying in the northern regions of India. The temperature in Delhi on Monday was recorded at 44 degrees Celsius, while as per the latest report of the India Meteorological Department heatwave conditions have been forecasted in Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, West Rajasthan, Jharkhand, and Odisha.

Amid this worse weather conditions, hospitalisation have rapidly risen in many states. Moreover, the Health Ministry confirmed over 50 deaths due to heatstroke incidence in India this summer.

Heatwaves can significantly impact our appetite and eating habits. Here’s how they affect our appetite and some tips to help build it back.

How Heatwaves Affect Appetite

Dr Sarathchandra Gorantla, Consultant Gastroenterologist, Hepatologist & Advanced Therapeutic Endoscopist, Yashoda Hospitals Hyderabad shared with News9, “During extreme heat, our bodies work harder to regulate internal temperature. This process is controlled by the hypothalamus in the brain, which also regulates hunger and satiety signals. When the hypothalamus is focused on temperature regulation, it suppresses appetite signals, leading to a decreased desire to eat.”

“Additionally, the body tries to minimise heat production from digestion, further reducing appetite.”

Foods to Build Back Appetite After a Heatwave

Once temperatures cool down, it’s important to replenish nutrients and rebuild your appetite. Here are some helpful tips:

1.Hydrating Foods: Incorporate water-rich foods like watermelon, cucumbers, and citrus fruits to replenish fluids lost during the heatwave.

2.Light and Refreshing Meals: Opt for lighter, cooler meals like salads, smoothies, and chilled soups to ease your body back into digesting heavier foods.

3.Protein-Rich Foods: Include lean proteins like grilled chicken, fish, or plant-based options like lentils and tofu to help rebuild your appetite gradually.

4.Probiotics: Consume probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, or fermented vegetables to support a healthy gut, which can improve appetite.

5.Herbal Teas: Sip on ginger, peppermint, or fennel tea, which can aid digestion and stimulate appetite.

6.Avoid Diuretics: Limit caffeine and alcohol, as they can contribute to dehydration and further suppress appetite.

 Heatwaves can significantly impact our appetite and eating habits. Here’s how they affect our appetite and some tips to help build it back.  Health Conditions Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare