Take a look at these foods that will keep you healthy and fight off infections and diseases.
The monsoon season brings along it's own set of food cravings. The grey skies, cool temperatures and rain showers leave you yearning for a good cup of masala chai and garam pakodas. However, along with lovely weather, the monsoon is also synonymous with infections and diseases, most of which are caused by contaminated food and water. Dietician and sports nutritionist, Deepa Nandy gives a list of foods that one should be eating this season to remain healthy.
1. Fruits
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Eating the fruits that Nandy terms as "monsoon fruits" will help prevent any major diseases this season. Some of these fruits include:
Cherries: They contain antioxidants that not only provide soothing effects to the brain but also help in fighting infections.
Jamun: This monsoon fruit is low in calories and high in nutrients. It is packed with iron, folate, potassium and vitamins which are some nutrients that the body needs more during this season.
Litchi: These are rich in vitamin C and help to build up resistance in the body. They strengthen the immune system and keep you from easily contracting common infections and diseases.
Bananas: They are rich in vitamins and minerals. One of the most common monsoon diseases include gastrointestinal infections and by easing the process of digestion, bananas help you prevent these infections.
2. Soups
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Soups are light, easy to make and full of nutrition. Not only do they keep you away from the flu but also provide the hydration you need in this weather. The humidity speeds up the process of dehydration and it is important to drink enough fluids to prevent it. Dietician Nandy especially recommends chicken soup as an excellent source of fluids and electrolytes, both of which are necessary for hydration.
3. Fenugreek and Cumin seeds
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Our immunity levels are probably at their lowest during the monsoon and it becomes especially difficult for the body to digest food. To ensure the normal functioning of the digestive system, Nandy recommends including fenugreek and cumin seeds in your diet.
4. Herbal Teas
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Although masala chai is a staple in all Indian households during the monsoon, milk is not the best option during this season of diseases. Instead, having herbal tea infused with either ginger or lemon will keep you disease free. You could also experiment with different flavours of tea such as Tulsi or Jasmine till you figure out which suits your taste buds the best.
5. Honey
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Honey, because of its high content of antimicrobial compounds, has potent antibacterial effects. It also helps to stimulate the immune system. Try substituting sugar for honey in your herbal tea or having it with cornflakes for breakfast every morning. Including honey in your diet is an easy way to avoid bacterial infections this season.
6. Garlic
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The flu is a common viral disease during the monsoon. Getting drenched in the rain is a real possibility during the season and is not always unavoidable. In case you get wet and are at risk of catching the flu, Nandy recommends adding a few garlic cloves in your soups and curries to give you the ability to fight viral infections and remain healthy.
7. Turmeric
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Turmeric is a magical herb that works wonders for your health during all seasons. However, during the monsoon, it is necessary because it helps in improving the immune system. It is well known for its anti-inflammatory properties and will definitely keep you away from throat infections. Try including it in your food or add it to a glass of hot, boiled milk and drink it every night before bed.
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