Monsoon Alert: 10 Foods To Avoid This Rainy Season
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Monsoon brings much-needed relief from the scorching heat, but it also invites a host of infections, digestive troubles, and water-borne diseases. During this season, your immunity may be slightly lower, and food contamination risks go up. So, it's essential to watch what you eat. Here's a list of foods you should avoid during the rainy season to stay healthy and safe.
1. Leafy Vegetables: Though green veggies like spinach and cabbage are healthy, they’re best avoided in monsoon. The moisture-rich environment makes them a breeding ground for germs and insects, which are hard to wash off completely.
2. Street Food: That tempting plate of chaat or pakoras from your favourite street vendor might not be the best choice. The open-air preparation and questionable water sources make street food risky, especially in the damp and unhygienic monsoon conditions.
3. Seafood: Monsoon is the breeding season for most fish and seafood. Consuming it during this time can lead to stomach infections or even food poisoning. It’s better to go vegetarian or choose fresh water fish if absolutely needed.
4. Fried and Oily Foods: Fried snacks may seem perfect for rainy evenings, but they can slow down digestion and cause bloating. The humidity can already affect your gut, so it's better to opt for lighter, warm, and home-cooked meals.
5. Cut Fruits from Outside: Pre-cut fruits sold in the open are exposed to flies and bacteria. With increased microbial activity during monsoon, it’s safer to eat freshly cut fruits at home and avoid anything that’s been sitting out.
6. Dairy in Excess: Dairy products like milk and curd can go stale faster in monsoon due to high moisture levels. If not stored well, they may lead to stomach upset. Consume them fresh and avoid excessive intake of raw or cold milk.
7. Fermented Foods: Foods like idli, dosa batter, or dhokla that require fermentation can easily turn sour and promote bacterial growth in the humid monsoon air. Always ensure they are freshly prepared and not left out too long.
8. Mushrooms: Mushrooms thrive in damp conditions, making them more susceptible to bacterial contamination during monsoon. If not cleaned and cooked properly, they can cause food poisoning.
9. Cold Beverages and Ice: Ice from outside sources may be made from contaminated water. Cold drinks can also lower your body temperature suddenly, weakening your natural defense mechanisms. Stick to warm herbal teas or boiled water instead.
10. Raw Salads from Unverified Sources: Uncooked veggies, especially when eaten outside, may not be washed properly and can carry harmful pathogens. If you're having salads, wash them thoroughly at home with clean water or vinegar.
A little extra caution with food can go a long way during the monsoon. Focus on freshly cooked, warm meals, and always prioritise hygiene. Staying mindful of your plate will help you enjoy the season without falling sick.
1. Leafy Vegetables: Though green veggies like spinach and cabbage are healthy, they’re best avoided in monsoon. The moisture-rich environment makes them a breeding ground for germs and insects, which are hard to wash off completely.
2. Street Food: That tempting plate of chaat or pakoras from your favourite street vendor might not be the best choice. The open-air preparation and questionable water sources make street food risky, especially in the damp and unhygienic monsoon conditions.
3. Seafood: Monsoon is the breeding season for most fish and seafood. Consuming it during this time can lead to stomach infections or even food poisoning. It’s better to go vegetarian or choose fresh water fish if absolutely needed.
4. Fried and Oily Foods: Fried snacks may seem perfect for rainy evenings, but they can slow down digestion and cause bloating. The humidity can already affect your gut, so it's better to opt for lighter, warm, and home-cooked meals.
5. Cut Fruits from Outside: Pre-cut fruits sold in the open are exposed to flies and bacteria. With increased microbial activity during monsoon, it’s safer to eat freshly cut fruits at home and avoid anything that’s been sitting out.
6. Dairy in Excess: Dairy products like milk and curd can go stale faster in monsoon due to high moisture levels. If not stored well, they may lead to stomach upset. Consume them fresh and avoid excessive intake of raw or cold milk.
7. Fermented Foods: Foods like idli, dosa batter, or dhokla that require fermentation can easily turn sour and promote bacterial growth in the humid monsoon air. Always ensure they are freshly prepared and not left out too long.
8. Mushrooms: Mushrooms thrive in damp conditions, making them more susceptible to bacterial contamination during monsoon. If not cleaned and cooked properly, they can cause food poisoning.
9. Cold Beverages and Ice: Ice from outside sources may be made from contaminated water. Cold drinks can also lower your body temperature suddenly, weakening your natural defense mechanisms. Stick to warm herbal teas or boiled water instead.
10. Raw Salads from Unverified Sources: Uncooked veggies, especially when eaten outside, may not be washed properly and can carry harmful pathogens. If you're having salads, wash them thoroughly at home with clean water or vinegar.
A little extra caution with food can go a long way during the monsoon. Focus on freshly cooked, warm meals, and always prioritise hygiene. Staying mindful of your plate will help you enjoy the season without falling sick.
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