Monsoon Diet: Foods to Embrace and Avoid for a Healthy Season

The monsoon season brings relief from scorching heat, rejuvenates nature, and fills our hearts with joy. However, it also increases the risk of infections and diseases due to the damp environment. To keep our immune system strong and stay healthy, let’s explore what to eat and what to avoid during this rainy season:

What to Eat:

1. Soups and Stews:
   • Warm, nourishing soups and stews are perfect for the rainy season.
   • Opt for vegetable-based soups with ingredients like carrots, spinach, lentils, and turmeric. These possess excellent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
2. Herbal Teas:
   • Sip on ginger, tulsi (holy basil), and peppermint teas.
   • These teas boost immunity, aid digestion, soothe the throat, and provide relief from common colds and coughs.
3. Seasonal Fruits:
   • Indulge in pomegranates, cherries, plums, and apples.
   • These fruits are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, bolstering your immune system.
4. Garlic and Turmeric:
   • Include garlic and turmeric in your meals.
   • Garlic has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, while turmeric contains curcumin—a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound.
5. Fermented Foods:
   • Incorporate yogurt, buttermilk, and idli into your diet.
   • These probiotic-rich foods promote gut health and aid digestion, maintaining a robust immune system.

What to Avoid:

1. Street Food and Fried Snacks:
   • These pose a higher risk of contamination due to increased humidity and unhygienic conditions.
   • Street food and fried snacks can lead to stomach infections and digestive disorders.

Remember, by making informed dietary choices, you can reduce the risk of infections and enjoy the monsoon season to the fullest.