Monsoon is here! Monsoon comes after months of scorching summer heat and the sun takes a step back, the leaves and flowers flaunt.
Monsoon offers a lot more, a fresh air, rain, what not..?. But it comes with its share of health risks. This is because of weather change, that spread of some disease is facilitated significantly during the season. There is always a way to enjoy most of this season by following a healthy diet. Instead of binging on fast and oily foods, make healthy and nutritional diet as a part of your lifestyles.
“Know your monsoon foods and eat them too”
Vegetables: – vegetables like creeper vegetables (like cucumber and snake gourd), gourds (such as bottle gourd and ridge gourd), and roots and tubers (like carrots, radish, and sweet potatoes) offer a treasure trove of health benefits during the monsoon season.
Firstly, they’re rich in vitamins and minerals, which bolster your immune system, helping you combat common monsoon ailments. These veggies also contain dietary fibre, aiding digestion and preventing digestive problems that often crop up during this season. Moreover, they are low in calories and high in water content, making them ideal for weight management. The hydration they provide is especially crucial in the humid monsoon climate.
Furthermore, vegetables like pumpkins and sweet corn are bursting with antioxidants, which protect your cells from damage. Incorporating these veggies into your monsoon diet not only keeps you healthy but also adds variety and flavour to your meals, ensuring you enjoy the season to the fullest while taking care of your well-being.
Probiotics – Including probiotics and fermented foods like yogurt and buttermilk in your monsoon diet is a smart move for good health. Probiotics are beneficial bacteria living in our gut, and they play a vital role in fighting harmful germs.
During the monsoon, when illnesses can be more common, a strong gut filled with probiotics can be your best defense. These friendly bacteria strengthen your immune system, making it better at warding off infections. Additionally, they improve digestion and reduce the risk of digestive problems like diarrhoea and stomach infections, which can be prevalent during this season due to contaminated water and food.
Scientifically, studies have shown that probiotics can enhance the production of antibodies, boost the activity of immune cells, and increase the body’s resistance to infections. So, enjoy yogurt and buttermilk to nurture your gut and fortify your health this monsoon.
Sprouts: Sprouts are a year-round health booster, especially during monsoons. These tiny powerhouses are rich in protein, making them ideal for a nutritious breakfast or snack. What’s more, they’re immune system superheroes. Sprouts are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that help your body fend off germs.
Scientifically, sprouts contain vitamins A, C, and E, known to strengthen your immune response. They also harbor zinc, an essential mineral for immune function. Moreover, their high protein content supports overall health, aiding in tissue repair and growth. These benefits are crucial during monsoons when infections are more prevalent.
Spices: Including spices like pepper, tulsi, cinnamon, and fenugreek in your diet can be a monsoon lifesaver. These spices aren’t just flavour enhancers; they boast antibacterial and antiviral properties. When consumed, they help your body combat harmful bacteria and viruses.
Scientific studies have confirmed the antimicrobial properties of these spices. For instance, cinnamon contains compounds like cinnamaldehyde, which have potent antibacterial effects. Fenugreek is rich in saponins and alkaloids, known for their antimicrobial actions. These spices can also aid in detoxification, removing harmful toxins from your body, which is vital during the monsoon to stay healthy. By incorporating sprouts and these spices into your diet, you’re not only enjoying tasty meals but also providing your body with the tools it needs to stay strong and resilient during the monsoon season.
Sprouts, spices, and probiotics are a formidable quartet in the monsoon. Turmeric milk fortifies immunity and aids digestion. Sprouts offer protein and germ-fighting power. Spices like pepper and cinnamon act as natural shields against infections. Probiotics bolster gut health, further enhancing your body’s defenses. Together, they create a robust defense system, ensuring a healthy and enjoyable monsoon season.
