As the monsoon hits, it cools down the temperature and provides relaxation from the scorching heat. But at the same time, it also brings the bag of illness. People around us start falling ill and suffering from a number of health problems. The reason behind the rising number of people failing ill is weak immune systems. The best way to stay healthy is to focus on a healthy and balanced diet. Certain foods for rainy season can help to boost the immune system and protect you from various seasonal diseases, such as infection, diarrhoea, and viral fever. However, these are common health problems that can affect anyone. Chronic diseases like malaria, dengue, typhoid and chikungunya are some chronic diseases caused by mosquito bites and unhealthy eating habits. Focusing on the diet in monsoon can help you to fight seasonal diseases.
Why Should We Consume Rainy Season Food?
Here are the reasons why you should alter your diet in monsoon.
- Packed With Nutrient
Rainy season vegetables and fruits are packed with nutrients, antioxidants, minerals, dietary fibre and vitamins. Including them in your diet during monsoon season improves overall health and prevents the occurrence of diseases.
- Boost Immunity
The risk of infection and illness is increased due to humid weather. Foods for rainy season like fruits and vegetables are rich vitamin C, potassium and other powerful antioxidant substances that boost immunity and reduce the risks of illness.
- Improve Digestion
Rainy-season foods are high in fibre, which promotes healthy digestion. Fibre helps to regulate bowel movements, prevent constipation, and maintain a healthy gut. Since digestive problems are common during the monsoon, it is important to consume fibre-rich foods during the monsoon.
- Boost Hydration & Detoxification
While some foods are highly contaminated and avoidable in the rainy season, a few help with hydration and detoxification. Lemon and apple are some foods for rainy season that are rich in Vitamin C, which detoxifies your body and keeps you hydrated as well.
Foods For Rainy Season To Stay Healthy & Fit
According to WHO, monsoons affect more than 3.4 million people in India, including children, adults, and the elderly. Following some preventive and precautionary measures can help you avoid waterborne diseases. Look at some foods for the rainy season that you should include in your monsoon diet.
- Bitter gourd (Vegetable)
Bitter gourd is one of the best foods for rainy season. It is rich in Vitamin C and has anthelmintic properties, which protect our intestines from parasites and worms that spread during the monsoon. Besides this, it also helps maintain weight and heart and respiratory health. Consume it as juice, pickle, stuffed, or any other easy way; it benefits the same.
- Jamun (Fruit)
It would be a great choice to add jamun to your rainy-day meals. Sweet in taste, jamun, Indian blackberry or java plum is rich in antioxidants, which play a significant role in reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, ultimately supporting the immune system.
- Peach
Foods for rainy season also include peach, which tastes sweet & tart. Peaches are packed with nutrients and antioxidants, keeping seasonal allergies and infections at bay. Additionally, this juicy fruit also keeps the body hydrated and reduces the risk of hypertension & heart-related issues.
- Garlic
Garlic is often considered a superfood in the rainy season. Its antibacterial and antifungal properties keep the cold, flu, and other health problems associated with monsoon season at bay. Moreover, it boosts the immune system, manages blood pressure, and lowers LDL levels.
- Lemon
Loaded with the goodness of vitamin C and potent antioxidants, lemon is one of the must-included foods for rainy season. The powerful antioxidants protect the immune system and enhance overall well-being. In addition to this, lemon also detoxifies the body and purifies the blood, resulting in reduced inflammation and promoting skin health.
- Turmeric
Turmeric is known for its antifungal, antiseptic, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. Consuming turmeric milk or a teaspoon of raw turmeric with lukewarm water fights monsoon infections and other seasonal health problems. Adding it to your diet in monsoon season is a good choice.
Additions Tips For Monsoon
Several other practices should be avoided during the monsoon for a healthy lifestyle. Here are a few tips to prevent infection.
- Avoid eating street and fried foods.
- Wash the vegetables, fruits and leafy vegetables to avoid bacteria and fungal growth.
- Refrain from eating seafood due to the risk of infection.
- Wash your hands frequently and use sanitiser to kill the germs
- Soak your clothes in the sun to prevent fungal infection.
- Keep your surroundings clean.
- Eat fresh food, light and healthy food.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to eat fruit, according to Ayurveda?
Morning is the best time to eat fruits. Some fruits, such as apples, are extra effective when eaten on an empty stomach. However, eating fruits with meals and dairy products is avoidable as it can lead to discomfort, indigestion, and gas.
Can we eat dry fruits during the monsoon season?
Yes, nuts and dry fruits are power-packed with nutrition that boosts the immune system, helping to fight infection and health problems.
What are the foods you should avoid eating during monsoon season?
Cucumbers and melons are not recommended for eating during the monsoon season. Due to rainwater contamination, they are at risk of waterborne diseases.
Is egg good for the rainy season?
There is no research that has found eggs to be harmful to eat in the rainy season. Eggs are a good source of important nutrients such as vitamins and protein, ultimately promoting our health.
What beverages can I drink in the rainy season?
The best beverages to drink in the rainy season are-
- Turmeric milk
- Ginger lemon tea
- Herbal tea
All these beverages have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory agents that can help you fight infection.
