The monsoon season brings much-needed relief from the scorching summer heat, but it also comes with its own set of challenges, especially related to health and diet. The increased humidity and dampness can lead to various health issues, making it crucial to pay extra attention to what you consume. Here are three foods you must eat and three you should avoid during the monsoon season to stay healthy and enjoy the rains.
Foods to Eat
Seasonal Fruits
Why: Seasonal fruits like pears, plums, apples, and pomegranates are packed with essential vitamins and antioxidants that boost your immune system.
Benefits: These fruits help in hydrating the body, improving digestion, and providing the necessary nutrients to fight off infections common during the monsoon.
Steamed Vegetables
Why: Steamed vegetables are easier to digest and less likely to cause gastrointestinal issues, which are common during this season.
Benefits: Including vegetables like carrots, beans, bottle gourd, and bitter gourd in your diet ensures a good intake of fiber, vitamins, and minerals while reducing the risk of contamination and foodborne illnesses.
Probiotics
Why: Probiotics like yogurt, buttermilk, and fermented foods help maintain a healthy gut flora, which is crucial for good digestion and a strong immune system.
Benefits: They aid in digestion, boost immunity, and can help prevent common monsoon ailments like diarrhea and gastrointestinal infections.
Foods to Avoid
Leafy Greens
Why: Leafy greens like spinach, cabbage, and lettuce are more prone to contamination and difficult to clean thoroughly.
Risks: Consuming contaminated leafy greens can lead to food poisoning, stomach infections, and other waterborne diseases.
Street Food
Why: Street food is often prepared in unhygienic conditions, especially during the monsoon when the risk of contamination is higher.
Risks: Eating street food can increase the chances of contracting foodborne illnesses, gastroenteritis, and other infections due to the use of unclean water and exposure to bacteria.
Fried and Oily Foods
Why: Fried and oily foods are harder to digest and can lead to indigestion, bloating, and other gastrointestinal issues, which are more prevalent during the monsoon.
Risks: Consuming heavy, greasy foods can weaken the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections and illnesses.
Maintaining a balanced diet during the monsoon season is key to staying healthy and enjoying the rains without any health issues. Incorporate seasonal fruits, steamed vegetables, and probiotics into your diet while avoiding leafy greens, street food, and fried items. This way, you can boost your immunity, aid digestion, and protect yourself from common monsoon ailments.
