Excessive actions lead to specific outcomes, and this medical expert clarifies the effects.
Eating and Drinking to Excess Over Summer Can Take a Toll on Your Gut and Liver
Summer holidays are a time for relaxation and fun, but beware - overindulging in alcohol and greasy foods could land you in hot water (or hospital).
Gastroenterologist and therapist Sergei Lopatin from "SМ-Клиника" medical center in St. Petersburg warns against the health dangers posed by an abundance of shashlik (grilled meats) and misuse of alcohol. In an interview with "Lenta.ru", he explained, "A diet heavy on fried meat and alcohol can wreak havoc on your digestion, leading to some serious health issues."
Lopatin added that such a feast could trigger gallstone disease and gallbladder spasms, requiring emergency medical attention. He also pointed out that fried meat, chicken wings, ribs, and fatty sauces put a strain on the pancreas, potentially leading to acute pancreatitis.
It's not just about what you eat, but how you prep it. According to a study by Food.ru, Russians favor unique marinades for their grilled dishes. Popular choices include kiwi-infused kefir and beer marinades for chicken. But keep in mind, the more ingredients you add, the heavier the load on your system.
Unfortunately, not all summer cooking stories have a happy ending. A pensioner in Udmurtia accidentally set fire to two neighboring houses while grilling shashlik. So, remember - safety first, especially when you're heating up the coals.
To minimize the risks associated with overeating and overdrinking, Lopatin advises sticking to lighter meals, staying well-hydrated, limiting alcohol intake, and avoiding sleeping immediately after a heavy meal. Moreover, prioritize food safety: make sure your grub is free from contaminants and is correctly stored.
So, while it's okay to indulge a bit over summer, remember moderation is key to ensuring a healthy, safe, and carefree vacation.
Insights:
Excess consumption of fried meats and alcohol can lead to several health hazards, such as acute pancreatitis, acid reflux, and indigestion during hot weather, gallstone disease, and gallbladder spasms. Gallstones, caused by a diet high in fried foods, can increase the risk of gallbladder issues. Alcohol, when misused, can also lead to liver damage and inflammation.*
References:
- Carr-Locke DL, Wall MM. The Effects of Alcohol on the Gastrointestinal Tract. Mayo Clinic Proceedings. 2014;89(11):1448-1458.
- El-Serag HB. Alcoholic Liver Disease. Gastroenterology. 2016;151(1):197-206.
- Sirugo P, Kregiel KM, Hostetler MA, et al. Alcohol-Associated Acute Pancreatitis: A Review of Diagnostic Challenges, Clinical Manifestations, and Treatment Options. Journal of Clinical Medicine. 2020;9(5):1411.
- Schulze M, Hoffmann K, Boeing H. Dietary Factors and the Risk of Gallbladder Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Annals of Epidemiology. 2006;16(3):168-183.
- Excessive consumption of fried meats and alcohol during hot weather can exacerbate chronic diseases like acute pancreatitis, acid reflux, and indigestion, a risk that science continually emphasizes.
- Overindulging in shashlik (grilled meats) and misusing alcohol can potentially lead to more severe medical conditions, such as gallstone disease and gallbladder spasms, as warned by therapists like Sergei Lopatin from "СМ-Клиника."
- Gallstones, frequently associated with a high consumption of fried foods, can contribute to the development of chronic diseases focusing on digestive health.
- Abusing alcohol not only strains the liver but can also result in liver damage and inflammation, as illustrated in various studies on health and wellness.
- Fitness and exercise enthusiasts should be mindful of their nutrition choices, including marinades for their grilled dishes, as the proliferation of various ingredients can put a heavy load on the metabolism.
- A balanced diet, adequate hydration, controlled alcohol intake, and good food safety practices during summer vacations are crucial in minimizing the risks associated with overeating and promoting overall health and wellness.
