ISLAMABAD: As temperatures continue to rise during the summer season, health experts are encouraging people to adopt healthier eating habits and avoid excessive consumption of sugary soft drinks and processed foods.
Medical specialists say dehydration, heat exhaustion and digestive problems become more common during hot weather, making proper hydration and balanced nutrition essential for maintaining good health.
Experts recommend replacing carbonated cold drinks with simple and natural alternatives such as plain water, lemon water, fresh juices, coconut water and homemade drinks prepared without excessive sugar.
According to nutritionists, soft drinks may provide temporary refreshment but can increase sugar intake, contribute to dehydration and negatively affect overall health when consumed regularly during extreme heat.
“People should drink more water throughout the day and include seasonal fruits in their diet,” said Dr Khalid Khan, a health expert.
“Natural drinks such as lemon water help maintain hydration and provide important minerals to the body,” Khan said.
Doctors also recommend consuming light and nutritious meals during summer, including fruits, vegetables, yoghurt, salads and freshly prepared foods instead of oily or heavily processed meals.
Seasonal fruits such as watermelon, mangoes, oranges and cucumbers are considered especially beneficial because of their high water content and nutritional value.
Health professionals warn that children and elderly people are particularly vulnerable to heat-related illnesses and should avoid spending long periods outdoors during peak daytime temperatures.
Experts further stress the importance of maintaining hygiene while preparing homemade drinks and food during summer to prevent stomach infections and foodborne diseases.
They say simple lifestyle changes, including drinking sufficient water, avoiding excessive sugary beverages and choosing natural foods, can significantly improve health and help people cope better with intense summer heat.
