Monsoon has started in many parts of the country. While the rainy season provides relief from the heat, it also increases the risk of many diseases. Due to accumulation of water at many places, mosquitoes breed rapidly, which increases the risk of diseases like dengue, malaria and chikungunya. At the same time, due to high humidity in the environment, bacteria and viruses also spread rapidly. In such a situation, especially children, elderly and people with weak immunity should pay special attention to their diet and cleanliness.
Eat light and home-cooked meals
During the rainy season, fried, spicy and oily food puts extra pressure on the digestive system. This can cause problems like gas, indigestion, constipation and food poisoning. Therefore, it is considered better to eat fresh and light homemade food in this season. Food items like bottle gourd, zucchini, tinda, bitter gourd, porridge, moong dal and khichdi are easily digested and also provide essential nutrition to the body.
Increase immunity with seasonal fruits
Seasonal fruits eaten fresh and thoroughly washed during monsoon provide essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants to the body. Mango, orange, blackberries, pear and other seasonal fruits help in strengthening the immunity. However, one should avoid consuming fruits that have been cut or kept in the open for a long time, as they have a higher risk of infection.
Keep hot beverages a part of your daily routine
Consuming cold drinks during the rainy season can increase the problems of throat infection, cold and cough. Instead, it is more beneficial to drink lukewarm water, ginger-basil tea, herbal tea, turmeric milk or soup. Along with keeping the body warm, these drinks also help in strengthening immunity and protecting from infection.
Keep digestive system healthy with probiotics
Digestive problems become common during monsoon. In such a situation, curd, buttermilk and other probiotic foods can be included in your diet in limited quantities, provided they are fresh and clean. These are helpful in maintaining the balance of good bacteria in the intestines, improving digestion and improving gut health.
Stay away from street food and stale food
Open and unhygienic foods found outside during the rainy season can cause infection. Street food, stale food, cut fruits and food items kept in the open for a long time should be avoided. Eating fresh and hygienically prepared food at home is considered the safest option in this season. It is also important to drink enough water and clean hands thoroughly before eating.
Monsoon season is definitely enjoyable, but a little carelessness during this time can take a toll on health. By adopting a balanced and nutritious diet, cleanliness, adequate water and proper eating habits, you can avoid dengue, malaria, viral infections and digestive problems to a great extent. For a healthy monsoon, make light, fresh and nutritious food a part of your daily routine.
