Bloating in summer: why it happens and how to avoid it
Have you been feeling more bloated than usual for weeks and can't quite figure out why? You're not imagining it. Summer has a real impact on your digestion, and there are specific reasons behind that heavy feeling that shows up even when you think you're eating well.
Why heat promotes abdominal bloating
In high temperatures, the body works differently. Extreme heat slows down digestion, as the body diverts energy towards regulating body temperature. On top of that, in summer we tend to:
- Drink less water than we need, which encourages fluid retention.
- Eat at irregular times or skip meals because of the heat, which disrupts intestinal transit.
- Overindulge in fizzy drinks, alcohol or ultra-processed foods at social events and on holiday.
- Move less on the hottest days.
The result is a combination of built-up gas, slow digestion and fluid retention that leads to that feeling of a bloated belly that you know all too well.
What you can eat to reduce bloating
The good news is that food is your best tool. Choosing meals that are light, hydrating and rich in soluble fibre makes a huge difference. Some particularly helpful foods include cucumber, celery, pineapple, ginger, avocado and leafy green vegetables.
It's no coincidence that these ingredients are the stars of our Lettus menu. A fresh salad with a base of spinach, cucumber and plant-based protein, or a Poké Bowl with brown rice, edamame and mango, are options your digestion will thank you for. They provide fibre, water, digestive enzymes and micronutrients without overloading the digestive system with heavy fats or refined flours.
Natural smoothies are also great allies: they combine hydration, vitamins and anti-inflammatory ingredients in a format that the body absorbs with ease.
Small habits that help just as much as diet
As well as watching what you eat, there are everyday actions that noticeably reduce bloating:
- Drink at least 2 litres of water a day, more if it's very hot or you're exercising.
- Eat slowly and chew well to make digestion easier from the start.
- Stick to regular mealtimes, even in summer.
- Avoid excess salt, which promotes fluid retention.
Whether you're on the coast or in the city and want an option that takes care of your wellbeing without giving up on flavour, at Lettus you can order online and receive your bowl or salad wherever you are. Eating healthy in summer is easier than it seems.