Food Habits during Monsoon Season

Preethi R. Nair, Chief Clinical Nutritionist, SUT Hospital, Pattom

The rainy season has arrived and the seasonal diseases. Mosquito-borne diseases, such as colds, flu, typhoid, dengue, and stomach infections are common during rainy season. So the food we eat should be nutritious and boost the immune system. During monsoon season, high levels of moisture in the atmosphere slow down our digestive system. So diet should be adjusted according to the weather.

Foods that are difficult to digest should be avoided. It is important to eat warm food during monsoon. Only boiled water can be used for drinking. As physical activities are relatively low during this season sweating will be reduced, so there will be tendency to drink less amount of water. This may create many health issues. Give priority to homemade food than outside food. Eating food from stalls and street eateries can easily cause infections as some may use contaminated water for preparing food.

Porridge and steamed food are good during the rainy season. Vegetable soup and chicken soup can also be included. Leafy vegetables should be washed properly before cooking. You can use cooked vegetables instead of salads. Do not include foods that cause digestive problems like maida, in the monsoon diet. During the rainy season many people like to eat fried foods, but this is not good for health. Consumption of coffee and tea should be restricted. Fruits can be eaten as fruit as such than juice. Low fat yogurt can be part of the diet. Foods stored in the fridge should be heated and used. Spices like pepper, ginger, coriander and garlic can help prevent monsoon diseases.