July 18, 2025, Press Release from Mercy Health:
LIMA, Ohio – As temperatures soar, Mercy Health is warning that popular summer dieting methods — like keto diets and intermittent fasting — may carry hidden health risks when combined with extreme heat.
While these diet plans continue to grow in popularity for quick weight loss and wellness goals, medical professionals caution they may contribute to dehydration, dizziness, and even heat exhaustion if not managed carefully.
"Keto diets may be an effective tool for weight management, but they demand extra caution during the summer," explained Becky Niekamp, a registered dietitian with Mercy Health Weight Management Solutions. "When your body is already working hard to stay cool, these diets can add unnecessary strain, especially if you’re not replacing lost fluids or electrolytes. Hydration isn’t just a recommendation – it’s a necessity."
Intermittent fasting, another common trend during summer, can also put people at risk by limiting regular fluid intake and energy sources during the hottest parts of the day.
"Too often, people confuse thirst and hunger or assume symptoms are just part of dieting,” said Niekamp. “But when it’s hot outside, those signs might actually mean your body is dehydrated. Prioritizing fluids and recognizing warning signs can help prevent serious heat-related illness.”
Common signs of dehydration that can often be mistaken for hunger include fatigue or low energy, headaches, lightheadedness, and cravings for salty foods. If you’re unsure, drink a glass of water and wait 15-20 minutes. If the feeling passes, your body may have been asking for hydration instead of food.
Below are some tips to help you stay hydrated while doing summer diets:
- Drink water consistently, not just when you feel thirsty.
- Add electrolyte supplements if following low-carb or fasting diets.
- Limit caffeine and alcohol, which can promote fluid loss.
- Eat water-rich foods like cucumbers, watermelon, and oranges.
- Avoid fasting or intense exercise during the hottest hours (10 AM–4 PM).
- Listen to your body’s warning signs and seek care promptly if symptoms arise.
Some key warning signs you may need medical attention include dizziness or lightheadedness, extreme fatigue, dry mouth and dark urine, a rapid heart rate, and nausea or confusion. Mercy Health offers fast walk-in care for individuals experiencing symptoms related to dehydration, heat exhaustion, or diet-related side effects.
Urgent care centers are often the best choice for treating common summer health concerns because they offer quick, affordable, and convenient medical care without the need for an appointment. To find out more about Mercy Health’s urgent care clinics or to find a location that’s most convenient for you, visit mercy.com.
For those looking to lose weight or improve their health in a sustainable way, Mercy Health – St. Rita’s Weight Management Solutions offers personalized support year-round. The program provides medically guided plans that prioritize safety, hydration, and long-term success — especially important during the summer months when heat and outdoor activity can complicate popular diet routines. Whether you're just starting your wellness journey or looking for guidance on maintaining results, Mercy Health’s team is here to help you reach your goals safely.
About Mercy Health - Lima
Mercy Health – St. Rita’s Medical Center, is part of Bon Secours Mercy Health (BSMH) one of the 20 largest health systems in the United States and the fifth-largest Catholic health system in the country. The ministry’s quality, compassionate care is provided by nearly 60,000 associates serving communities in Florida, Kentucky, Maryland, New York, Ohio, South Carolina, and Virginia, as well as throughout Ireland. Mercy Health – St. Rita’s Medical Center has been providing quality health care to the people of Allen County and west central Ohio since 1918. The mission of Mercy Health is to extend the compassionate ministry of Jesus by improving the health and well-being of our communities and bring good help to those in need, especially people who are poor, dying and underserved. With more than 3,000 employees, physicians and volunteers in the area, the ministry provides quality, innovative, compassionate care to the greater Lima community. For more information, visit mercy.com.
