Brace yourself as Bengaluru flips the switch to summer

Bengaluru

Bengaluru has begun to experience the sharp onset of summer, with temperatures rising dramatically to nearly 31 degree celsius. Mornings are no longer crisp and pleasant, gradually turning warmer, while afternoons are marked by intense heat and harsh sun. The seasonal shift was evident as early as mid-February, when citizens swapped their hoodies for half-sleeved T-shirts.

With the soaring temperatures, Bengalureans are now increasingly reaching for their water bottles, ensuring they stay hydrated throughout the day as the city braces for the peak summer months. Doctors and health experts have cautioned the public about the range of illnesses that tend to surge during periods of extreme heat, particularly affecting those who work outdoors and school-going children exposed to the sun for long hours. Common concerns include sunstroke, heatstroke, dehydration, and heat exhaustion, which can largely be prevented by staying properly hydrated.

Think before you take a bite!
“Pani used in pani puri and the chutneys served in restaurants can sometimes cause stomach upsets”, said Dr Krithika Ganesh, a Consultant in Family Medicine from Bengaluru. She explained that water and food contamination are particularly common during the summer months, as high temperatures can cause food stored in the open to spoil quickly, potentially leading to illness after consumption.

Ingesting these contaminated foods can lead to stomach infections, diarrhoea and other gastrointestinal disorders. Therefore, she advises the public to refrain from eating food that has been kept for extended durations or remains uncooked, and instead opt for freshly prepared meals. Dr Krithika noted a rise in cases of diarrhoea, stomach upsets and viral throat infections over the past two weeks.

She further highlighted that excessive sweating during summer can cause skin infections, particularly in body creases, leading to rashes and fungal infections such as ringworm, commonly seen between the toes due to sweat trapped inside shoes. Heat can also cause skin burns. To prevent such issues, she advised wearing loose, breathable cotton clothing, carrying umbrellas, and applying sunscreen generously to protect the skin.

What should I eat?
S. Saroopa, Senior Nutritionist and Founder of Diet Mojo, advised the public to prioritise seasonal, locally available fruits during the summer months. “It is time to switch from chia seeds to subza seeds (basil seeds)”, she said, noting that basil seeds have natural cooling properties and are better suited for hot weather compared to chia seeds.She also recommended preparing infused water with soaked subza seeds and fruits such as lemon slices, strawberries, pineapple, and mint leaves. 

Such naturally flavoured water not only enhances hydration but also provides Vitamin C and other nutrients. Additionally, she pointed out that colourful, fruit-infused drinks can make hydration more appealing and enjoyable for children, encouraging them to drink more water throughout the day. She also recommends other natural coolant beverages such as ash gourd juice, tender coconut water, and buttermilk.

Saroopa shares a quick homemade electrolyte drink recipe: “Mix a pinch of salt and a teaspoon of sugar into a bottle of water, stir well, and sip for immediate replenishment”,  She notes that it can be consumed gradually, even during gym workouts, to combat dizziness and dehydration. In solid foods, she recommended consuming curd rice, a natural probiotic, and fermented rice to help cool the body, while avoiding spices and millets such as ragi. “Avoid drinking packaged juices - they’re often high in sugar and contain anti-nutrients. Also, try to skip buying bottled water and carry your own reusable bottle instead”, she advises.