The rainy season brings a refreshing change in weather, but it also brings a rise in humidity, waterborne diseases, and digestive issues. Our immunity tends to be lower during this time, making it essential to eat foods that support our health and protect us from infections. A well-balanced, mindful diet can go a long way in keeping you energized and illness-free during the monsoon.
Foods to Include in Your Monsoon Diet:
1. Warm, Cooked Foods:
Opt for freshly cooked meals over raw or cold foods. Warm soups, stews, and lightly spiced curries are easy to digest and comforting during damp weather.
2. Seasonal Fruits:
Fruits like pears, apples, pomegranates, and bananas are great choices. Wash them thoroughly to remove any surface bacteria. Avoid cut fruits sold in the open.
3. Herbal Teas and Warm Drinks:
Ginger, tulsi, and mint teas not only help improve digestion but also boost immunity. Avoid cold drinks as they can lead to throat infections.
4. Spices with Medicinal Properties:
Use turmeric, garlic, ginger, cumin, and black pepper in cooking. These spices have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that support gut health.
5. Probiotic-Rich Foods:
Curd and buttermilk (if tolerated) help maintain healthy gut bacteria, essential for immunity. Prefer homemade versions over packaged ones.
6. Light Grains and Pulses:
Moong dal, rice, oats, and millets are easy on the stomach and ideal for rainy days. Avoid heavy, greasy dishes that can upset digestion.
7. Bitter Vegetables:
Include bitter gourd (karela), fenugreek (methi), and neem in small amounts. These help prevent infections and purify the blood.
Foods to Avoid During the Rainy Season:
1. Street Food and Raw Salads:
These are often exposed to air and rain, increasing the risk of contamination and stomach infections.
2. Leafy Vegetables:
Spinach, cabbage, and lettuce can harbor germs and are harder to clean thoroughly in monsoon. Prefer vegetables like bottle gourd, ridge gourd, and pumpkin.
3. Seafood:
Monsoon is breeding season for fish, increasing the chances of waterborne diseases. Limit or avoid seafood during this time.
4. Fermented and Oily Foods:
Pakoras and deep-fried snacks, though tempting, can slow down digestion. Consume in moderation.
5. Cold Dairy Products:
Items like cold milkshakes or chilled yogurt can aggravate respiratory issues.
Tips for a Healthy Rainy Season:
Drink plenty of boiled or filtered water to stay hydrated.
Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly with clean water or use a natural vegetable wash.
Eat smaller, more frequent meals to avoid bloating.
Stay physically active indoors to keep metabolism steady.
Boost your immunity with Vitamin C-rich foods like amla and citrus fruits.
By following these simple dietary guidelines, you can enjoy the beauty of the rainy season while keeping your health in check. Remember, moderation and hygiene are key during monsoon months.
