Staying Healthy in the Rainy Season

Following the scorching summer months, the monsoons bring about a welcome relief from the sweltering heat to our parched souls. We all look forward to the first of the showers, and revel in the joy that the rains bring about. And yet, like with all things in life, monsoons bring about their own share of challenges for us to deal with.

The damp environs during the monsoons are the ideal time for viruses and bacteria to thrive. And therefore, it I imperative for us to take adequate precautions lest we fall pray to viral fevers, allergic reactions and other health issues.

Staying healthy requires boosting immunity, as well as taking precautions from acquiring infections. Good healthy diet, proper personal hygiene, and adequate public sanitation helps improve our internal immune system.

In terms of consumption, it helps to drink a lot of fluids. Water must be ideally boiled or purified. Fluids advisable to drink include – soups, green tea, herbal tea with herbs and spices like thulsi, cinnamon, ginger, turmeric among others. These are high in antioxidants, anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and thereby help boost immunity in addition keeping the body hydrated.

Probiotic food consumption must be increased during the monsoon months. This includes increased consumption of curds, yogurt, buttermilk etc., to make our gut healthier by increasing the growth of good bacteria in the gut. Our diets must also include healthy proteins they both increase immunity and as well as aid recovery from illness. This includes - milk and milk products, pluses like moong dal, lentils, chole, rajma, soya, egg and chicken.

Citrus fruits are particularly helpful in increasing immunity. Oranges, Papaya, Strawberries, Kiwi, Lemons alongside peaches, plums, cherries, jamun, and pomegranate are advised to be consumed as they are packed with vitamins A and C and antioxidants.

Also include ginger, garlic, fenugreek seeds and methi in your regular diet as they have anti-viral properties and are also have antioxidant effects on the body.

Finally, it is advisable to have a regular exercise regimen to remain fit. Regular exercise also improves blood circulation, which fortifies your immune system against viruses and bacteria.

Thus, the simple tips to keep yourself healthy during the monsoon season would be

• Healthy diet and exercise
• Personal hygiene and public sanitation
• Wash vegetables & fruits before consumption
• Drink boiled or purified water
• Wash your hands with a hand wash before and after having a meal.
• Always carry a hand sanitizer along when you step out.

Dr Aiswarya Raj P.R

MSc, CN&D

Chief Dietitian

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