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

Get the app

Understand this story

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

More briefs

WorldUS brain fungus cases quadruple in two years Health82% of therapists say normal emotions are now 'illnesses' HealthScience Corp implants PRIMA vision chip in first Stargardt patient, who reads a word HealthTwo HRT patch brands, Estradot and FemSeven Conti, are in short supply WorldIndonesia Tests Dry Ice to Clear Toxic Wildfire Haze PoliticsMore Seven-Year-Olds Than 50-Year-Olds Get Disability Benefits More health stories → Browse all stories →