Monsoon has started pouring in. The change from extremely hot to a pleasant and refreshing rainy season is surely soothing. While most people enjoy the monsoon season — sitting down with a cup of tea, biting into pakoras and samosas, and watching the rain — it is also unfortunate that the rains also bring along their share of health concerns. From food poisoning, diarrhea, infections, colds, and flu to many other health risks, we can fall prey to a host of health issues in this season.
The arrival of monsoon presents an opportunity to indulge in a variety of regional specialties that are not only delicious but also help boost immunity and keep us healthy.
Here is a list of foods that one can consider incorporating into their daily diet.
1.Turmeric Milk also known as haldi doodh, is a traditional Indian beverage renowned for its medicinal properties. A blend of warm milk, turmeric, and a touch of honey or jaggery, it is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. Consuming haldi doodh during monsoon can boost immunity and help fight common seasonal ailments.
2.Green peppercorns contain piperine, an alkaloid that has various health benefits. It also has a significant amount of vitamins C and K. They are a potent source of antioxidants. They are also beneficial for gut health as they can reduce bloating and also improve digestion.
3.Ginger for coughing and congestion are prevalent during the monsoon season, and ginger can help with both. Ginger includes the bio-active compound genistein, which benefits by loosening phlegm and removing it, resulting in a speedy recovery.
4.Lemongrass contains compounds like citral, which exhibit antimicrobial and immune-stimulating properties. It also aids in digestion and helps with muscle soreness.
5.Giloy is an anti-inflammatory, antipyretic herb that helps to boost your immunity to fight against the infection and helps in early recovery. It also has fever-reducing properties and helps manage fever and flu-like symptoms.
Foods to avoid during monsoon:
There are several unhealthy eating practices that one should avoid, as these food habits are more prone to increase your risk of contracting infections during the monsoon season.
1.Avoid eating food at street stalls or unwashed vegetables and fruits.
The temperature during monsoon is ideal for bacterial and fungal growth and there is an increased risk of food and waterborne infections. Thus, it is important to wash these veggies thoroughly and cook them on high heat before eating.
2.Limit sea food
The risk of water contamination is high during this season, which makes fish and seafood vulnerable carriers of infections.
Dr Anish Desai is MD, Clinical Pharmacologist and Nutraceutical Physician, Founder and CEO, IntelliMed Healthcare Solutions.