Ah, summer… the sun is shining, the grill is fired up, and you’re ready to enjoy juicy burgers, marinated chicken, and all the BBQ classics. But here’s the not-so-fun side of summer feasting… food poisoning. Yep, it’s a real party pooper, especially when heat meets bacteria in your picnic basket.
Why BBQs + Heat = Trouble for Your Gut
When the temperatures rise, so do the risks. Bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli love warm environments, and if food isn’t stored or cooked properly, they can multiply quickly. Eating contaminated food can lead to food poisoning, which hits your gut hard.
What Food Poisoning Does to Your Gut
Food poisoning isn’t just an unpleasant stomach upset; it can seriously disrupt your gut
microbiome. The trillions of friendly bacteria living in your intestines that help you digest
food, fight infections, and keep your immune system on point.
Here’s what can happen:
- Diarrhoea and vomiting flush out not just the bad bugs, but your good gut bacteria too.
- Inflammation sets in, making your gut lining more sensitive and “leaky.”
- Cramping and bloating become unwelcome guests at your BBQ aftermath party.
- Long-term imbalance in your microbiome can lead to digestive issues, fatigue, and weakened immunity.
Why Looking After Your Microbiome Matters
Think of your gut bacteria as your body’s personal cheer squad, they help keep you
healthy, balanced, and energised. When food poisoning strikes, it’s like your cheerleaders
get sidelined, and you’re left facing a tough crowd. Supporting your microbiome after food
poisoning is key to bouncing back faster and avoiding lingering issues.
What I Recommend:
- Activated Charcoal – Your Gut’s Emergency Responder
Activated charcoal is amazing at binding toxins and bacteria, helping to clear them out
before they cause more trouble. I recommend Just for Tummies Activated Charcoal for its
gentle yet effective action. It’s like a sponge for your digestive system. - Regular Colonics – Deep Gut Reset
Colonic hydrotherapy is my go-to for helping clients flush out toxins and rebalance their
system. After food poisoning, a colonic can support your gut to heal and encourage regrowth
of good bacteria, restoring harmony to your microbiome. - Stay Hydrated and Eat Gut-Friendly Foods
Water is your best friend when you’ve lost fluids through diarrhoea or vomiting. Also, nourish
your gut with soothing foods like bone broth, fermented veggies, and probiotic-rich yogurt.
A Quick Note on Prevention
I get it, sometimes the BBQ just calls your name!
To keep food poisoning at bay:
- Keep raw meats cold until cooking.
- Cook everything thoroughly (no pink burgers!).
- Don’t leave food sitting out too long in the heat.
- Wash your hands and utensils often.
Bottom Line…
Food poisoning sucks, but it doesn’t have to wreck your gut for months. With the right care, like activated charcoal, regular colonics, and mindful eating, you can bounce back, keep your microbiome happy, and be ready for the next BBQ season.
If you are feeling less-than-great after your summer feast, come see myself or Lucy. With over two decades of experience, we will help you reset your gut and get back to feeling like yourself again.
