What Not To Eat This Monsoon For A Happy Stomach And Fewer Sick Days

Even while it delivers much-needed reprieve from the intense heat, the monsoon season also brings an increased danger of waterborne illnesses and diseases. At this time, we need to pay special attention to foods to avoid during the monsoon! During this period, some foods may become contaminated and could potentially cause stomach problems if consumed. The heightened likelihood of contamination and foodborne diseases during the monsoon season is enough to make some people avoid eating certain foods. Bacteria, fungi, and other diseases thrive in the high humidity and wet conditions that characterise this period. 

Foods to avoid this monsoon 

• Avoid stale food: Bacteria may develop rapidly in damp environments, causing food poisoning, in leftovers or meals that have been sitting around for too long. Always put leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and don't eat anything that has gone bad.
• Watermelon and cucumber: Cucumbers and watermelons are cool and pleasant, but they deteriorate rapidly in the monsoons because of their high water content. To reduce the danger of infection, wash and peel them well before eating them. This is a type of food to avoid during the monsoon season!

• Leafy greens: The monsoon season is a prime time for the infection of leafy greens such as cabbage, lettuce, spinach, and more. Infections or gastrointestinal problems could result from the filth, germs, and parasites they harbour. To lessen the likelihood of contamination, use veggies that have been thoroughly cleaned and cooked.

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• Sprouts: Despite their nutritional value, sprouts are a breeding ground for germs and fungi, particularly when stored in damp environments. During the monsoons, eating raw sprouts raises the risk of foodborne illness. Cooking or heating sprouts thoroughly makes them safer to eat.
• Street food: Due to its typically unsanitary preparation, street cuisine poses a health concern during the monsoon season. If you want to keep your risk of food poisoning to a minimum, stay away from street sellers selling chaat, pakoras, and samosas. This is food to avoid during rainy seasons!
• Pre-cut fruits: People selling pre-cut fruits on the street or at marketplaces may not be washing or storing them correctly, so they might be contaminated. To lessen the danger, eat entire fruits that you can easily peel and wash at home.
• Fried and processed food: Although fried foods such as samosas, pakoras, and fries are enticing on rainy days, they may be rather heavy and cause indigestion if consumed in large quantities. Overconsumption of fried and fatty meals is also associated with an increased risk of obesity and gastrointestinal problems.
• Dairy products: High humidity has a short shelf life for dairy goods, including paneer, milk, and cheese. Food poisoning may be caused by contaminated dairy products. Select yoghurt, buttermilk, or other options made from pasteurised milk, and make sure you store them safely!

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So, what exactly can you eat during the monsoons? 

• Seasonal fruits are a must: During the rainy season, be sure to include seasonal fruits in your diet. They are packed with vitamins and minerals, which may help strengthen your immune system. During the monsoon, go for fruits like bananas, lychees, apples, pears, and pomegranates. Because of their low water content, these fruits are less likely to cause water-related illnesses. Mangoes are delicious, but they may aggravate skin conditions like acne if you're not cautious.
• Drink warm fluids to rehydrate: Particularly during the monsoons, when high humidity levels may cause dehydration, staying hydrated is essential for optimal health. Indulge in hot or warm beverages, such as herbal teas infused with ginger, pepper, mint, basil, and honey. These beverages not only satisfy your thirst but also enhance your immunity due to their antibacterial properties. However, since they dilute bodily fluids, coffee and tea should not be consumed in excess.
• Cut back on sugar and up your fruit game: Consuming fresh, light fare is essential during the monsoon season. Fresh food lowers the risk of illnesses, whereas heavy meals might be difficult to digest. During a monsoon, it's best to eat foods high in fibre, such as brown rice, oats, and barley. Garlic is a natural immune booster, so feel free to sprinkle some on top of your soups and curries.

• Steamed veggies: The monsoon season is a prime time for the spread of infectious diseases caused by bacteria and viruses that live on fresh vegetables. Incorporate a heated salad into your monsoon diet regimen rather than a raw salad. The heating process eliminates the majority of microorganisms and simplifies the digestion of steamed vegetables.
• Incorporate probiotics: Yoghurt and almond milk are two examples of probiotic-rich meals that may aid digestion and strengthen the immune system. Instead of milk, which may lead to gas and indigestion during the monsoons, you can have them instead.

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• Better stick with bitter: We are better protected against illnesses by consuming bitter vegetables and herbs, such as karela (bitter gourd) and methi (neem, turmeric powder, and fenugreek seeds). Toss them into your diet when it begins to pour!