The monsoon is a time to bid goodbye to the harsh heat and rejoice. But, despite the refreshing rain there are certain problems with the season, like people’s increased susceptibility to diseases. Contaminated food and water is often the number one cause for getting sick during the monsoon. Illnesses range from flu to more serious diseases like typhoid. Fortunately, they are easily avoidable. Dietician and sports nutritionist, Deepa Nandy shares her mind on what we should do this season to avoid falling sick.
Follow these simple tips to enjoy the lovely monsoon without the downsides of getting sick!
1. Eat freshly prepared, home cooked meals
Home cooked meals are the best way to avoid getting any kind of stomach infections because they are hygienic and well-cooked. There is no ambiguity on the quality of water or vegetables used and therefore you can enjoy your meal without having to worry about getting sick.
2. Avoid eating anything from the road side stalls
Getty Images
The hygiene of street food, especially during the monsoon, is highly questionable. In order to save money and maintain quantity, the vendors might compromise on the quality of materials used. Also, eating food that has been exposed to the contaminated air for a long time or has been made using water that may not be clean is bad for your health. It could lead to serious diseases such as typhoid.
3. Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly
Getty Images
The vegetables and fruits that you buy may have more grime on them than usual so it is important to wash them thoroughly. Washing the vegetables also gets rid of the infection causing germs that may have been present on the surface. The monsoon also sees a rise in the number of worms that make home in these vegetables, especially green and leafy ones. Washing them thoroughly will help you get rid of these worms and avoid diseases.
4. Stick to seasonal foods
Getty Images
India has three distinct seasons including monsoon and our farmers grow crops for each season. Sticking to seasonal foods that are available during the monsoon will keep you healthy because other vegetables may not be freshly available. Due to high moisture levels, sometimes vegetables and fruits can rot if not stored properly. To avoid taking a risk, stick mostly to seasonal foods.
5. Boil the water that you use for drinking or cooking.
Getty Images
Boiling the water kills the harmful bacteria that may be present in it. This reduces the chances of getting water-borne diseases that are very common during the monsoon. Along with killing the bacteria, drinking boiled water has several health benefits like getting rid of the toxins in your body and improving digestion.
[Source:- DNA]
