DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.

Dr Misba Begum, MSc. Clinical Nutrition, Apollo Clinic, Velachery, agreed, adding that the summer appetite phenomenon refers to the change in eating patterns many people experience during hot weather: often feeling less hungry or eating differently than they do when it is cooler outside.

“As a result of the body trying to keep its temperature down, digestion slows down. Because of this, most people do not want to consume heavy meals and skip meals or eat very little as a result of this. On the other hand some people will begin to crave cold drinks, ice cream, or light snacks instead of regular meals,” she tells indianexpress.com.

Understanding the condition

Dr Begum elaborates that these effects are generally caused by heat and a loss of fluids due to dehydration. “When the body is overheated, it prioritises cooling itself, thus reducing the amount of hunger signals sent to the brain. Also, because of increased sweating in the summertime, people lose more water and electrolytes through sweating and this can cause fatigue, feelings of fullness or no appetite,” she says. According to her, high temperatures can also have some effect on the hormones that regulate hunger and digestion, causing some changes in people’s normal eating habits.

Why is intervention necessary?

Dr Begum believes failure to monitor this behaviour could have detrimental consequences, as many people will use cold drinks, packaged juices or sweets to replace meals that were once considered healthy.

• Skipping meals for too long will create fatigue, weakness and insufficient nutrition; leading to low energy levels, dizziness or lack of concentration.
• It can also result in the over-consumption of unhealthy foods at a later time; therefore causing weight gain and digestive complications.
• Additionally, failing to stay completely hydrated through daily consumption of water will further increase the risk of dehydration and heat-related illnesses.

What should you do instead?

To manage summer appetite changes effectively, Dr Begum says that the focus should be on consuming light yet nutritionally balanced meals. “Suitable options include fresh fruits, salads, curd or buttermilk, along with easy-to-digest home-cooked foods. Maintaining adequate hydration is equally important, especially during hot weather,” she suggests.

Drinking sufficient water throughout the day is crucial.

“Foods with high water content such as watermelon, cucumber, muskmelon, coconut water, lemon water, and fresh fruit-based drinks without added sugar and curd-based preparations can be especially beneficial during summer and can help maintain hydration and electrolyte balance,” advises Dr Begum.

Finally, she adds that eating small, healthy meals at regular intervals can help prevent fatigue, weakness, and overeating later in the day. At the same time, excessive intake of sugary beverages, fried foods, packaged snacks, and excess caffeine should be limited, as these may worsen dehydration and sluggishness.

Listening to the body’s hunger and thirst cues while maintaining balanced nutrition can help people stay healthy, energized, and comfortable during the summer season.

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.