Gastrointestinal infections are one of the most common disorders in this hot season. One of the main reasons why they occur is due to the consumption of food in poor condition, since, due to high temperatures, it decomposes faster, especially when it is left exposed to the environment without adequate refrigeration. On the other hand, there is also a lack of hygiene by not washing food or kitchen utensils properly, among other factors. On this occasion, Dr. Héctor Velarde, a gastroenterologist at Clinica Ricardo Palma, will give us more information on the subject.

How long can food be outside the refrigerator in summer?

Food should be refrigerated immediately after preparation if it is not going to be consumed at the moment; since a perishable food begins to decompose when it is exposed to the environment for more than 30 minutes and after two hours it should no longer be suitable for human consumption.

How do gastrointestinal infections occur?

A gastrointestinal infection can occur under three types of events with the following symptoms:

• Acute events: episodes of liquid or semi-liquid diarrhea are usually present and, on some occasions, episodes of fever, headache and general malaise.
• Food poisoning: When food spoils, some bacteria produce toxins, which cause discomfort or diarrhea.
• Chronic events: The consumption of food exposed to heat and decomposed, alters the microbiota or intestinal flora, which means that people can continuously present gas, bloating and increased abdominal sounds, weakness, fatigue, diarrheal discharge, among other symptoms.

Recommendations

It is important to follow the following recommendations to prevent future infections:

• Wash your hands thoroughly and regularly
  This is a routine that must be always followed, whether you’re making an appetizer, cooking, or using the restroom.

• Properly store food
  Perishable foods should be kept refrigerated to prevent decomposition and spoilage.

• Disinfect kitchen utensils thoroughly
  It is important to disinfect the utensils well before using them, since in summer there is a greater proliferation of flies that can contaminate them.

• Disinfect vegetables and fruits
  Everything that is consumed must be washed. If it has already been washed, it is advisable to do it again before consuming it to prevent any infection.

On the other hand, when there is already an infection, heavy eating should be avoided and a soft diet should be followed so that the intestine rests and the infection does not become complicated. If there are symptoms such as fever, bloody diarrhea or diarrhea that does not improve in 3 to 5 days, it is necessary to see a specialist so that they can provide adequate treatment.

Dr. Héctor Velarde
Gastroenterologist at Clínica Ricardo Palma