As the season heats up, our appetite cools off. Experts say it’s not just your imagination.
When the temps go up, your body has to work harder to keep cool, and that can change how much you want to eat.
Experts say digesting food actually raises body temperature, which is why many people naturally feel less hungry in hot weather.
At the same time, we can lose up to two quarts of fluid an hour through sweat in extreme heat.
When we digest food, our bodies produce heat, a process called the thermic effect.
“The blood is all over your body, trying to cool you off. So now I don’t have as much blood in my digestive tract to digest the food,” said Tara Collingwood, a registered dietitian.
So, when it’s hot outside, your body may naturally try to eat less to stay cool, but skipping meals can backfire.
“It will catch up to you at night, and you’re going to signal to your brain, ‘I am very hungry; please feed me,’” explained Collingwood.
Experts say try cooler, lighter foods in the heat. One of the best ways to fight the heat? Eat your water.
Watermelon is about 91% water and also provides potassium, which helps support muscle and nerve function. Cucumbers are about 95% water, one of the most hydrating foods, and can help keep your body cool. Strawberries are rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants, which help support the immune system while providing hydration.
And one more thing: Timing matters.
“Eat something within an hour of getting up and then try to eat every three to four hours throughout the day,” said Collingwood.
It can help your body stay cool without running out of energy.
Dehydration does more than just make you thirsty. Even mild dehydration can affect your body, causing headaches, fatigue, dizziness and trouble concentrating.
As fluid levels drop, your blood volume can fall, making your heart work harder and sometimes leaving you lightheaded. In more serious cases, dehydration can contribute to heat exhaustion or heat stroke which is why experts say staying hydrated in hot weather is critical.,