Monsoons can provide most people with relief from the scorching sun, but they also come with some nasty side effects – a host of seasonal allergies and health problems. The allergens brought on by torrential rains are pollen, dust and dirt particles, which aggravate allergic asthma. Moisture in the air as well as wet clothes and shoes are ideal breeding grounds for bacterial and viral infections that cause colds and flu, both of which can wreak havoc on an asthma patient’s life. . What a person eats has a significant effect on the body, especially during the monsoon season. High humidity slows down our digestion and weakens our immune defenses. Eating the right foods and avoiding harmful foods will help you stay healthy.
Here are the right foods to consume to avoid allergies during monsoons:
1. Seasonal Fruits
Apples, jams, lychees, plums, cherries, peaches, papayas, pears and pomegranates can help boost your immune system and prepare you for the season and its accompanying ailments. Avoid fruits that contain a lot of water like watermelon and cucumber as they can cause colds.
2. Soup and tea
Green tea, masala tea or your regular tea is considered very beneficial during the monsoon season. Vegetable soups and dal soups are also beneficial as they strengthen immunity to respiratory disorders. Moreover, both drinks are gentle on the stomach and one of the best foods for monsoon asthma is tea and soup.
(Read more: Monsoon health tips: 5 monsoon foods that help cleanse the liver naturally)
Monsoon allergies can be prevented by eating hot soup.
3. Buttermilk and yogurt
Most doctors recommend using yogurt in place of milk in the diet. Milk can harbor disease-causing bacteria and germs if not boiled properly, while yogurt and skim milk contain probiotic bacteria that aid digestion.
4. Bitter food
Foods like gourds, neem seeds, dandelion greens, and herbal teas can help eliminate toxins as well as boost immunity levels. These foods also contain many vitamins and minerals such as calcium and iron, which are necessary for a healthy and strong person. Since many people get sick or suffer from allergies during monsoons, building immunity can help prevent them.
(Read more: Monsoon Health Tips: How to Make Neem Tea to Prevent Seasonal Illnesses)
An herbal tea can work wonders for immunity and good health during monsoons.
5. Homemade fruit juices
Homemade fruit juices, such as apple juice and orange juice, are not only delicious but also packed with health benefits to keep you healthy during this monsoon. Apple juice aids in the removal of toxins from the liver, as well as increasing pH levels and preventing stomach problems.
Orange juice is considered one of the healthiest drinks because it boosts immunity, boosts metabolism, and detoxifies the body. It also reduces the risk of diseases such as malaria and diarrhea, which are common during the monsoon season.
6. Probiotics and vegetables
Raw vegetables should not be eaten as they may contain bacteria and viruses that can cause serious infections such as stomach upset, food poisoning (a common summer illness) and diarrhea. It is best to eat boiled and steamed vegetables as they are high in protein, fiber and other nutrients that help reduce skin conditions such as acne, which is common during the monsoon season. If using vegetables or sprouts in a salad, make sure they are blanched or steamed. Consuming nutrient-rich dairy products like yogurt and skim milk is also important to avoid illness during the rainy season.
(Read more: This monsoon, try these 7 delicious soup recipes for a healthy body)
Contrary to popular belief, yogurt is great for monsoons.
7. Ginger and Garlic
In addition to their anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties, ginger and garlic have antiviral properties that can help reduce fever and chills. Ginger tea can help relieve throat discomfort, while grated ginger or its essence can be mixed with honey for children over one year of age. Garlic, which has antibacterial/antifungal properties, can be used in gravies, chutneys, soups, teas and other dishes.
8. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties. Better immunity would be beneficial during the monsoon season when the risk of food and waterborne infections increases. Omega-3 fatty acids can be found in fish, shrimp, oysters, walnuts, pistachios, chia seeds, flaxseeds, and other nuts and seeds.
About the Author: Dr. Aditya S Chowti is a Senior Consultant in Internal Medicine at Fortis Hospital, Cunningham Road, Bangalore
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