Your favorite food causing monsoon illness- 8 ways prevent it

The monsoon season comes with a variety of diseases like Zika, dengue, cholera, diarrhea, vomiting etc. However, some might wonder why does this happen in Monsoon only?

The reason for illness in this weather is the changing temperatures and wet environment. Monsoon is the most favorable environment for germs to grow.

Currently, in India we are seeing the rise of monsoon related diseases especially Zika, dengue and malaria. There has been a 42 percent rise in Dengue in Karnataka- according to Heath Minister. Along with that alert has been announced in Maharashtra after Pune being the hub of Zika virus. Expecting mothers are children are told to be cautious amid the changing season.

Although this this is the season when people crave for spicy and hot delicacies, we must be conscious in what we are having as nutrition and food plays a main role in maintaining a good health. Taking vitamins, minerals, antioxidants in sufficient quantity creates a balanced approach towards well -being of an individual. “Such nutrients strengthen the body’s defenses against diseases and help in cellular repair, necessary for omitting the stresses of seasonal changes,” Sushma PS, Chief Dietician, Jindal Naturecure Institute advises.

Avoiding Street food can prevent issues in monsoon- doctor says

We often undermine the effects of our lifestyle choices which might end us in situations like bad gastronomical discomforts. Deputy superintendent of Capital Hospital, Dr Dhananjay Das advises how use of hygiene and avoiding street foods in this season while drinking boiled water helps to prevent illnesses.

Another doctor says how our digestion becomes slow in this particular shift of season and eating fresh food with good hydration can help in maintain a healthy lifestyle. A major cause of concern is the E-coli bacteria found in contaminated food.

There are several cases of people infected with typhoid and cholera due to contaminated water and food. However, it is possible to prevent these issues and maintain a balanced and positive health.

Certain immunity boosting foods called superfoods can aid in the process.

Which superfoods can boost immunity?

1. Ginger– It has anti-inflammatory and lots of antioxidants to boost immunity. Using this in food and tea can really help in cough and cold.
2. Turmeric- Taking turmeric can reduce effects such as diarrhea, constipation or vomiting and increases natural antioxidant capacity of the body. In ayurveda, great importance has been giver to turmeric or curcumin.
3. Garlic– Garlic increases white blood cells in body leading to increased immunity among people. It has many medicinal properties to treat a variety of ailments. It grows in many parts of the world and used frequently especially in India cooking.
4. Citrus Foods– Foods rich in Vitamin C like lemon. Oranges, grapefruit etc provide lots of immunity due to their role in producing white blood cells and repairing damaged tissues.
5. Milk Products– Milk products especially yogurts are very helpful in maintaining a good gut health. These are a excellent source of probiotics and good bacteria. It can be paired with cereals or fruits to make a healthy breakfast recipe.
6. Almonds- Rich source of vitamin-E and antioxidants. Can be used as light snack or in breakfast recipes.
7. Green leafy Vegetables– Packed with beta carotene and various vitamin and mineral, these are an excellent source to boost immunity.
8. Mushrooms- Contains Vitamin-B and selenium. Easy to incorporate and tasty, these are a delicious option to include in your monsoon diet as soups or snacks.

Focusing on fresh and seasonal ingredients can really boost immunity and help to prevent the monsoon illnesses. Using indigenous ingredients and lots of veggie and grains can help. Instead of having food from outside, try making at home for better hygiene this monsoon.