I live in Barbados, and I've never used heating with my Bp, and she functions just fine. However I can differ from traditional heating since I live in the tropics which has a permanent summer like climate, with a minimal dip in temps around December through January but never enough to require heating.
Never had mites (not even sure there're mites on the island...), No RI, No issues with digestion.... I suggest everyone moves to Barbados!!!!! LOL