Health · 13 August 2026

Avoid ultra-processed foods and alcohol in a heatwave

Dietitian Kate Hilton says that during heatwaves, it's best to drink more iced water and eat cool, hydrating foods like cucumber and melon. She warns that both caffeine and especially alcohol can have dehydrating effects on your body. Ultra-processed foods, refined sugars, and deep-fried items are also listed as dietary gut disruptors.

By BriefTea Editorial · 13 August 2026 at 8:40

Reported by BBC · How we write briefs

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How does alcohol dehydrate? What are ultra-processed foods? What is gut health? Why does heat dehydrate us?

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