Heatwave and digestion: 7 foods to avoid in (very) hot weather
In summer, we dream of freshness, light dishes, picnics in the sun... But some foods can have the opposite effect: too heavy, poorly digested, or simply more risky when the thermometer goes up. Here's a list of foods to be eaten with caution - or even avoided - during hot weather.
1. Rich, fatty dishes: digestion slows down
Mac and cheese, fried chicken or a burger dripping with cheese? Tempting as they are, it's best to leave them for the winter. High-fat foods, especially those in sauce or fried, slow digestion and put extra strain on the body... which is already busy regulating its temperature.
2. Delicatessen and undercooked meats: beware of bacteria
Raw ham forgotten in the picnic bag, improvised barbecues under the sun... Poorly preserved or undercooked meats are an ideal playground for bacteria such as salmonella or E.coli. In summer, the risk of food poisoning soars: so be careful with cold meats, tartars and carpaccios.
3. Raw or undercooked eggs: an invisible danger
Homemade desserts such as chocolate mousse or homemade mayonnaise made with raw eggs should be handled with care. Heat increases the risk of contamination. If you insist on these recipes, opt for pasteurized eggs and eat them as soon as possible after preparation.
4. Raw fish: freshness is a must
Sushi, ceviche, fish tartar... Yes, it's light and delicious. But if the cold chain is broken for even a moment, beware of bacteria! Reserve for trusted restaurants or at home, buying ultra-fresh fish and following good practices.
5. Cream desserts: calorie bomb + bacterial risk
Layer cakes, millefeuille, tiramisu... these creamy sweets should be eaten quickly and in moderation. Heat is not their ally: not only do they not keep well, they also make digestion more difficult.
6. Excessive alcohol: the wrong way to cool down
A cool drink on the terrace may seem refreshing... but alcohol dehydrates, dilates blood vessels and makes you feel hotter. What's more, it slows down thermoregulation. If you drink alcohol, drink water at the same time to compensate.
7. Ultra-processed foods: little water, lots of salt
Chips, crackers, industrial dishes... these foods are low in water and high in salt. The result? They promote water retention, a feeling of heaviness and dehydration. In summer, it's all about fresh, homemade food!
In a nutshell
When it's hot, the body needs freshness, water and lightness. Exit rich dishes, poorly preserved fragile products or excess alcohol. Instead? Fresh fruit, mixed salads, well-cooked grilled meats, flavoured waters... And above all, maximum hydration to make the most of summer!
Adèle Peyches
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