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Foods You Must Eat To Stay Healthy In Monsoon!

By Dr. Nikita Toshi +2 more

Join Health Talk by PharmEasy on WhatsApp

Introduction

The monsoon season is a welcome change after four long months of scorching summer heat. However, while monsoon offers respite from the heat, it comes with its share of health risks. This is because of the weather changes (temperature and humidity), which facilitate the spread of some diseases significantly during this season. However, seasonal changes in weather and humidity may be associated with a higher occurrence of certain infections, digestive discomfort, and allergies in some individuals. But there is always a way to enjoy most of this season by following a few precautions and a healthy diet.

Stay Fit This Rainy Season By Adding These Foods to Your Diet

1. Soup

Instead of opting for unhealthy roadside snacks, consider a bowl of steamy hot soup if you are hungry. It can be filling and is packed with nutrients, and is easy to digest. A bowl of chicken soup or vegetable corn soup garnished with black pepper, garlic, and ginger can contribute to your daily fluid intake while providing a comforting and nourishing meal throughout the day2

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2. Jamun, Plum

Fruits like Jamun and Plums can be a nutritious addition to a balanced monsoon diet. Jamun has a sweet but slightly tangy  flavor3. Juice made of Jamun also contains bioactive phytochemicals, which can protect the liver from getting damaged and can improve your metabolism.  On the other hand, tangy and sweet plums are filled with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that contribute to overall nutritional intake. 

3. Sprouts

Sprouts are good for your health in all seasons, particularly in the monsoon. Sprouts are a nutrient-dense food option rich in plant-based proteins, vitamins, and minerals that support overall health and contribute to normal immune function. To reduce the risk of foodborne illness, ensure that sprouts are thoroughly washed and prepared hygienically before consumption. 

4. Herbal Tea with Honey

Herbal tea, such as tulsi tea and ginger tea are popular choice for soothing comfort during the monsoon season. Consuming warm herbal teas can help maintain optimal hydration and alleviate throat discomfort often associated with seasonal transitions. Add a few drops of honey to  enhance flavor and provide traditional soothing relief.” While ginger contains bioactive compounds like gingerols, which have been studied in laboratory settings for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, these beverages are intended to support overall well-being rather than prevent or treat medical conditions like the cold or flu. 

During monsoons, you crave ginger tea more than often. It is scientifically proven that ginger might reduce inflammation and infections due to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities11.

Dr. Siddharth Gupta, B.A.M.S, M.D (Ayu)

5. Turmeric Milk

A common kitchen ingredient, turmeric can be consumed in any form during every season. It contains curcumin and other naturally occurring compounds that have been studied for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties7. Integrating a moderate amount of turmeric into your diet, such as a warm milk infusion at night, serves as a comforting beverage that supports general well-being during seasonal changes. However, dietary turmeric does not function as a therapeutic shield against infections.  

6. Probiotics

Including fermented foods like yogurt and buttermilk into your diet can support digestive health during the monsoon season. Probiotics are living microorganisms that reside in our gut or intestinal tract. Probiotics, when consumed in adequate amounts, may support digestive health in some individuals.  However, their effects can vary depending on the individual, the specific strain, and the amount consumed. 

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7. Lemon

Lemon is a great source of vitamin C that acts as an antioxidant and contributes to the normal function of the immune system. While the monsoon season increases the risk of exposure to food and waterborne pathogens, dietary vitamins support cellular health, which in turn can protect you from infection. Lemon is a rich dietary source of Vitamin C and citric acid, which naturally support general well-being. The citric acid in lemon can assist in maintaining a favorable digestive environment that supports optimal nutrient breakdown, while its Vitamin C content acts as an essential nutrient that can contribute to healthy bone matrix and skeletal structure. Having lemon juice or squeezing some on your food or salads is a good way to add nutrition into your body.

8. Dry Fruits and Nuts

Dates, almonds, walnuts, and cashews can be nutritious snack options throughout the year, including during the monsoon season. These foods provide a variety of nutrients, including healthy fats, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making them a valuable addition to a balanced diet. Nuts and dry fruits contain nutrients such as riboflavin ( vit B2 )and niacin (vit B3), which contribute to normal energy metabolism and overall nutritional intake. They also contain antioxidants that help protect cells from oxidative stress. Choosing nuts, dry fruits, and seeds as snacks can be a healthier alternative to highly processed foods as part of an overall balanced lifestyle. 

9. Karela (Bitter Gourd)

As bitter as it may taste, karela is one of the most powerful foods you can add to your monsoon diet. It is an excellent source of essential antioxidants, vitamins A, C, and folate, which contribute to the normal function of the immune system and help protect cells from oxidative stress.  Some studies show Karela may help to keep your blood clean and may support normal metabolic function and digestive health. Further, karela may assist the liver’s natural detoxification processes. Try it as a stir-fry, juice, or a light sabzi13.

10. Jackfruit

Jackfruit is a nutrient-dense whole food rich in dietary fiber, Vitamin C, potassium, and B-complex vitamins, making it a wholesome addition to a seasonal diet. Its high fiber content supports digestive regularity and assists in maintaining general gut health. Jackfruit also contains powerful antioxidants that contribute to the normal function of the immune system and help protect cells from oxidative stress. Whether enjoyed as a hearty raw jackfruit curry or as a naturally sweet ripe fruit, it is a delicious and nutritious way to stay strong through the season14.

11. Garlic

Garlic is a traditional culinary herb containing bioactive organosulfur compounds, such as allicin, which have been studied in laboratory settings for their antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. Incorporating moderate amounts of garlic into freshly prepared, warm meals during the monsoon season serves as a flavorful addition that supports general physiological well-being12

Garlic has shown multiple effects like anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-viral, and antioxidant. These medicinal actions of garlic might be beneficial in tackling cough, cold, and flu-like conditions, especially in children12.

Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS

Foods to Avoid This Rainy Season

Certain foods may require extra caution during the monsoon because warm and humid conditions can increase the risk of contamination if food is not stored, handled, or prepared properly. The following is a list of food items that may require extra caution to eat during the rainy season.

1. Raw Leafy Greens

Raw leafy vegetables should be eaten with extra care during the monsoon. The damp and humid weather can make it easier for germs to stick to fresh produce. If these vegetables are not washed properly, they may cause stomach discomfort or food poisoning in some cases. To stay safe, wash leafy greens thoroughly before eating them. Whenever possible, choose cooked vegetables during the rainy season. Eg: Spinach, lettuce, cabbage, methi, and other raw salad greens15.

2. Street-Side Cut Fruits

Street-side cut fruits may expose you to harmful bacteria and viruses, as cut fruits sold outdoors are left uncovered for long periods, they may be exposed to dust, flies, and contaminated water for long periods. The lack of proper hygiene and refrigeration makes them highly susceptible to microbial growth, which can increase the risk of stomach upset or foodborne illness. Instead, choose whole fruits that can be washed and cut fresh at home16.  Eg: Cut watermelon, papaya, pineapple, guava, and mango slices sold at roadside stalls.

3. Street Chaat

it is advisable to take extra care when eating street chaat during the monsoon. Street chaat can increase the risk of foodborne illnesses. During the monsoon, it is typically prepared in open, unhygienic conditions using water and ingredients that may be contaminated. The combination of raw ingredients, tamarind water, and chutneys made without proper sanitation significantly raises the risk of infections like typhoid, cholera, and hepatitis A17. Eg: Pani puri, bhel puri, dahi puri, sev puri, and other roadside chaats.

4. Seafood

Seafood should be avoided or consumed with extra caution during the rainy season, as monsoon is the breeding season for most fish and shellfish, making them more prone to contamination and bacterial growth. Water bodies also tend to get polluted during heavy rains, which directly affects the quality and safety of seafood available in the market. Poorly stored or undercooked seafood during this season can lead to severe food-borne illness and digestive issues18. Eg: Raw or lightly cooked fish, prawns, crabs, oysters, and other shellfish.

3-Day Sample Meal Plan

Eating right during the rainy season does not have to be complicated. Here is a simple and nutritious 3-day meal plan to help you stay healthy, energised, and infection-free this monsoon.

Day 1:

  • Breakfast: Vegetable upma + herbal ginger tea with honey
  • Mid-Morning Snack: A handful of almonds and walnuts
  • Lunch: Moong dal khichdi + curd + stir-fried karela sabzi
  • Evening Snack: A bowl of hot vegetable corn soup
  • Dinner: Roti + turmeric dal + sautéed seasonal vegetables

Day 2:

  • Breakfast: Sprouted moong chaat + tulsi tea with honey
  • Mid-Morning Snack: A cup of fresh jamun or a few plums
  • Lunch: Brown rice + chicken curry + steamed broccoli
  • Evening Snack: A glass of warm turmeric milk with a few dates
  • Dinner: Vegetable soup + multigrain roti + light paneer sabzi

Day 3:

  • Breakfast: Poha with lemon squeeze + ginger tea with honey
  • Mid-Morning Snack: A small bowl of yogurt with a drizzle of honey
  • Lunch: Jackfruit curry + steamed rice + cucumber raita
  • Evening Snack: Roasted makhana or a handful of cashews and walnuts
  • Dinner: Masoor dal soup + roti + stir-fried seasonal greens (well-cooked)

Nourishing or comforting Recipes for the Monsoon Season

The monsoon season calls for a little extra care from the inside out. These time-tested, easy-to-make recipes are packed with natural ingredients that may support your body’s natural wellness, and keep you feeling warm and energised through the rainy days.

1. Ginger-Tulsi Kadha

A traditional Indian home remedy, ginger-tulsi kadha has been trusted for generations, that contain natural plant compounds and antioxidants that help support overall well-being and maintain normal immune health. Sipping this warm drink is an excellent way to naturally soothe a dry or scratchy throat and provide comforting relief from seasonal dampness.

Ingredients:

  • Fresh Ginger: 1-inch piece, crushed
  • Fresh Tulsi Leaves: 8–10 leaves
  • Black Pepper: 4–5 whole peppercorns, crushed
  • Cinnamon Stick: Half
  • Cloves: 2
  • Honey: 1 teaspoon
  • Water: 2 cups

Method of Preparation:

  • Bring the water to a boil in a small saucepan.
  • Add crushed ginger, tulsi leaves, black pepper, cinnamon, and cloves.
  • Let the mixture simmer on a low flame for 10–12 minutes until the water reduces slightly and turns deep golden.
  • Strain the kadha into a cup and allow it to cool slightly.
  • Stir in a teaspoon of honey and sip it warm.

2. Turmeric-Garlic Soup

This warm, flavorful soup is made with a combination of traditional kitchen ingredients that are perfect for the rainy season. Turmeric contains natural plant compounds known for their antioxidant properties, while garlic has long been used in home cooking to support overall well-being. Together, these ingredients make this soup a nutritious addition to your diet that contributes to normal immune health. It is light on the stomach, easy to digest, and deeply comforting on a rainy evening.

Ingredients:

  • Garlic Cloves: 6–7, minced
  • Turmeric Powder: 1 teaspoon
  • Vegetable or Chicken Broth: 3 cups
  • Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
  • Olive Oil or Ghee: 1 tablespoon
  • Black Pepper: Half teaspoon
  • Salt: To taste
  • Fresh Coriander: For garnish

Method of Preparation:

  • Heat ghee or olive oil in a pan and sauté the onions until soft and translucent.
  • Add the minced garlic and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
  • Stir in the turmeric powder and black pepper and mix well.
  • Pour in the broth and bring it to a gentle boil.
  • Let it simmer for 10–15 minutes on low flame.
  • Adjust salt to taste, garnish with fresh coriander, and serve hot.

3. Pepper Soup

Simple and comforting, this warm pepper soup is an excellent choice to help take the chill off during a damp, rainy day. Black pepper contains piperine, a natural plant compound known for its antioxidant properties that help protect your body’s cells from everyday stress. Sipping this warm, light broth provides a soothing sensation for your throat, helps keep you hydrated, and supports your natural digestive process.  It is light, soothing, and perfect for days when you feel under the weather.

Ingredients:

  • Freshly Crushed Black Pepper: 1 teaspoon
  • Tomatoes: 2 medium, chopped
  • Garlic: 3–4 cloves, minced
  • Ginger: Half-inch piece, grated
  • Vegetable Broth: 2 cups
  • Cumin Seeds: Half teaspoon
  • Ghee: 1 teaspoon
  • Salt: To taste
  • Lemon Juice: A squeeze

Method of Preparation:

  • Heat ghee in a pot and add cumin seeds. Let them splutter.
  • Add ginger and garlic and sauté for a minute.
  • Toss in the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften completely.
  • Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
  • Add freshly crushed black pepper and salt and let it simmer for 8–10 minutes.
  • Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice and serve piping hot.

4. Spiced Moong Dal Khichdi

A beloved monsoon comfort food, spiced moong dal khichdi is the ultimate one-pot meal that is gentle on the stomach yet deeply nourishing. The combination of moong dal and rice provides a complete plant-based protein profile, which is easy for the body to absorb, while the spices turmeric, cumin, and ginger support your natural digestive process and contribute to overall well-being. It is wholesome, easy to prepare, and perfect for all ages.

Ingredients:

  • Yellow Moong Dal: Half cup
  • Rice: Half cup
  • Turmeric Powder: Half teaspoon
  • Cumin Seeds: 1 teaspoon
  • Ginger: Half-inch piece, grated
  • Ghee: 1 tablespoon
  • Asafoetida (Hing): A pinch
  • Green Chilli: 1, slit (optional)
  • Salt: To taste
  • Water: 3–4 cups
  • Fresh Coriander: For garnish

Method of Preparation:

  • Wash the moong dal and rice together and set aside.
  • Heat ghee in a pressure cooker or deep pot and add cumin seeds and a pinch of hing.
  • Add grated ginger and slit green chilli and sauté for a minute.
  • Stir in the washed dal and rice along with turmeric and salt.
  • Add water and mix well. Pressure cook for 3–4 whistles or cook covered on low flame until soft and well-combined.
  • Serve hot with a drizzle of ghee on top and garnish with fresh coriander.

5. Herbal Rasam

A staple of South Indian kitchens, herbal rasam is a thin, tangy, and spiced broth that is a true immunity elixir during the monsoon. Packed with the goodness of tamarind, tomatoes, black pepper, and cumin, rasam that supports your natural digestive process and contributes to overall well-being. Sipping this warm, aromatic soup provides a soothing sensation for your throat and helps keep you hydrated on damp rainy days. It can be had as a soup, drunk straight from a cup, or mixed with rice for a light and healing meal19.

Ingredients:

  • Tamarind: Small lemon-sized ball, soaked in water
  • Tomatoes: 2, roughly chopped
  • Black Pepper: 1 teaspoon, crushed
  • Cumin Seeds: 1 teaspoon
  • Garlic: 4–5 cloves, crushed
  • Dry Red Chilli: 1–2
  • Turmeric Powder: Quarter teaspoon
  • Mustard Seeds: Half teaspoon
  • Curry Leaves: A sprig
  • Ghee: 1 teaspoon
  • Salt: To taste
  • Fresh Coriander: For garnish

Method of Preparation:

  • Extract tamarind juice from the soaked tamarind and set aside.
  • In a pot, combine tamarind water, chopped tomatoes, turmeric, and salt. Bring to a boil and let it cook for 5–7 minutes.
  • In a separate small pan, heat ghee and add mustard seeds, dry red chilli, curry leaves, crushed garlic, cumin, and black pepper.
  • Let the tempering sizzle for a minute and pour it over the rasam.
  • Simmer everything together for another 5 minutes.
  • Garnish with fresh coriander and serve hot as a soup or with steamed rice.

Hydration Alternatives for the Monsoon Season

Staying hydrated during the monsoon is just as important as any other season, even if you do not feel as thirsty as you would in summer. The humidity and dampness can mask your body’s need for fluids, making it easy to fall short on hydration. Plain water is always essential, but these wholesome, flavourful beverages not only keep you hydrated but also contribute to your overall well-being to help you sail through the rainy season with ease.

1. Jeera Water

Jeera water is one of the simplest and most effective hydration drinks you can prepare at home during the monsoon. Cumin seeds contain natural plant compounds that support healthy digestion and help maintain gut comfort. which can be useful during the humid monsoon months when digestion sometimes slows down. Regular consumption of jeera water supports your body’s natural metabolic processes and contributes to keeping your digestive system running smoothly and predictably20

How to Prepare:

  • Dry roast one teaspoon of cumin seeds in a pan until they turn aromatic.
  • Add them to two cups of water and bring to a boil.
  • Let it simmer for 5 minutes, then strain and allow it to cool slightly.
  • Sip it warm in the morning on an empty stomach for the best results.

2. Ginger Tea

There is nothing quite like a steaming cup of ginger tea on a cold and rainy day. Ginger contains natural plant compounds that support healthy digestion and help maintain stomach comfort during the humid monsoon months, soothes an irritated throat, while supporting your body’s natural baseline immunity, and improves digestion. Drinking ginger tea regularly during the monsoon may help you stay warm, hydrated, and comfortable 

How to Prepare:

  • Crush a fresh one-inch piece of ginger and add it to one and a half cups of water.
  • Bring to a boil and let it simmer for 5–7 minutes.
  • Add tea leaves or a teabag if desired and steep for another 2 minutes.
  • Strain into a cup, add a teaspoon of honey, and serve warm.

3. Coconut Water

Fresh coconut water is a natural electrolyte drink that replenishes minerals lost through sweating and keeps the body well-hydrated through the humid monsoon days. Rich in potassium, magnesium, and calcium, which contribute to maintaining normal fluid balance and support your body’s overall well-being. Light, refreshing, and naturally sweet, coconut water is one of the cleanest and most nourishing hydration options you can choose this season21.

How to Prepare:

  • Always opt for fresh, tender coconut water over packaged or bottled versions.
  • Serve chilled or at room temperature directly from the coconut.
  • You can add a pinch of black salt and a squeeze of lime for an extra flavour boost and added digestive benefits.

4. Lemon Water

A glass of lemon water is one of the easiest and most refreshing ways to stay hydrated during the monsoon. Lemon is a natural source of vitamin C, which has an essential antioxidant that contributes to the normal function of the immune system and helps maintain healthy skin. Enjoying a glass of lemon water helps maintain normal hydration levels and supports your natural digestive process  

How to Prepare:

  • Squeeze half a fresh lemon into a glass of warm or room-temperature water.
  • Add a pinch of black salt and a teaspoon of honey for taste and added benefits.
  • Stir well and drink it first thing in the morning on an empty stomach.
  • You can also add a few fresh mint leaves for a cooling and refreshing twist.

5. Buttermilk

A traditional Indian drink that has stood the test of time, buttermilk is a probiotic-rich hydration powerhouse that is especially beneficial during the monsoon. Made from churned curd, buttermilk supports gut health by promoting the growth of good bacteria, aids in digestion, and helps cool the body naturally. It is light on the stomach, easy to digest, and helps prevent common monsoon digestive issues like bloating, acidity, and loose motions22.

How to Prepare:

  • Take half a cup of fresh curd and add one cup of chilled water to it.
  • Churn or whisk it well until smooth and frothy.
  • Add a pinch of roasted cumin powder, black salt, and fresh chopped coriander or mint.
  • Mix well and serve fresh. You can also add a small piece of grated ginger for an extra digestive boost.

Diabetic and PCOS-Friendly Monsoon Diet Guide

The monsoon season brings with it a host of tempting comfort foods. For individuals managing diabetes or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), maintaining balanced eating habits throughout the season can help support their overall dietary goals. The good news is that with a few simple swaps and smart additions, you can enjoy a nourishing and satisfying monsoon diet that works in your favour.

For People with Diabetes

Managing blood sugar during the monsoon requires choosing foods that are low on the glycaemic index (GI), high in fibre, and easy to digest. Here is how you can modify your monsoon diet to keep your blood sugar levels stable and your immunity strong23.

  • Choose Whole Grains Over Refined Carbs: Consider replacing refined grains with whole-grain alternatives as part of a balanced meal plan. Whole grains typically contain more fibre and nutrients than refined grains and may be preferred by some individuals managing diabetes. 
    • Recommended: Brown rice, millets (jowar, bajra, ragi), oats, whole wheat roti, barley khichdi
    • Avoid: White rice in large portions, maida rotis, bread, noodles, and processed snacks
  • Include fibre-rich vegetables: Vegetables that are rich in fibre can be a valuable part of a balanced diet for people with diabetes. In addition to providing vitamins and minerals, fibre contributes to overall dietary quality and can help promote satiety as part of a balanced meal. Most monsoon vegetables are naturally high in fibre and low in calories, making them excellent choices.
    • Recommended: Karela (bitter gourd), lauki (bottle gourd), tinda, ridge gourd, methi leaves (cooked), cabbage, and cauliflower
    • Avoid: Starchy vegetables like potato, arbi (colocasia), and raw banana.
  • Opt for Protein-Rich Snacks: Replacing sugary or fried snacks with protein-rich options may help maintain steady energy levels and avoid sudden dips in alertness or stamina between your main meals. 
    • Recommended: Boiled chana, moong dal chilla, roasted makhana, a small handful of almonds and walnuts, plain yogurt with seeds
    • Avoid: Biscuits, namkeen, street chaat, fried snacks, and packaged foods
  • Smart Hydration Choices for Diabetics
    • Recommended: Jeera water, methi water (soak methi seeds overnight and drink the water in the morning), plain buttermilk without sugar, warm lemon water, herbal teas without sugar
    • Avoid: Packaged coconut water with added sugars, fruit juices, sweetened herbal drinks, and sugary kadhas

For People with PCOS

A balanced and nutritious diet can play an important role in the overall management of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Choosing a variety of nutrient-dense foods, including whole grains, vegetables, fruits, legumes, nuts, seeds, and other minimally processed foods, can help support overall health and dietary goals. During the monsoon season, maintaining regular meal patterns and making mindful food choices can help you meet your nutritional needs while enjoying seasonal foods. The following suggestions focus on incorporating wholesome foods and balanced meals as part of a healthy lifestyle. 

  • Prioritise Protein at Every Meal: Protein may help to regulate insulin levels, reduce cravings, and support hormonal balance. Including a good source of protein at every meal is one of the most effective dietary strategies for managing PCOS.
    • Recommended: Moong dal, masoor dal, chana dal, eggs, paneer, tofu, sprouts, Greek yogurt, and lean chicken
    • Avoid: Protein bars with added sugar, processed meats, and deep-fried protein snacks
  • Go Low on Refined Carbohydrates: Refined carbs can spike insulin rapidly, which in turn triggers excess androgen production, a key driver of PCOS symptoms. Choosing complex, fibre-rich carbohydrates may help keep insulin in control
    • Recommended: Ragi roti, jowar bhakri, quinoa, sweet potato (in moderation), oats, and brown rice
    • Avoid: White bread, maida-based snacks, instant noodles, cookies, and sugary breakfast cereals
  • Focus on Antioxidant-Rich Foods: Including foods rich in natural antioxidants into your daily routine is an excellent way to support your body’s natural defense systems and overall well-being. The rainy season is a perfect time to enjoy warming, nutrient-dense foods that contribute to overall physical comfort and vitality from within. 
    • Recommended: Turmeric milk, ginger-tulsi kadha, walnuts, flaxseeds, fatty fish (well-cooked), leafy greens (well-cooked, not raw), and berries
    • Avoid: Processed oils, fried foods, excess sugar, and alcohol

Healthy Lifestyle Tips for Monsoon

Besides healthy eating, a few health tips, such as the following, can lower your chances of being affected by a host of illnesses:

  • Keep your house and surroundings clean.
  • Wash your hands with a hand wash before and after having a meal.
  • Always carry a hand sanitizer along when you step out.
  • Always wash the vegetables and fruits with clean, purified water before cooking or consuming them raw.
  • Stay hydrated by drinking safe and clean water throughout the day.
  • Last but not least, take care of your gut. Monsoon can take a toll on your digestive system and you may experience frequent acidity, gas, bloating, etc. Some infections can also affect your liver. You should avoid fried foods and heavy, fatty dishes during this season. If you have developed a stomach infection, consult your doctor immediately.

PharmEasy’s Monsoon Gastro Stomach Infection Package has 33 tests, including Complete Blood Count (CBC), Test for Typhoid, Hepatitis, liver enzymes, etc., to help your doctor detect a plethora of monsoon-related infections and diseases. Don’t take it lightly if you see any symptoms of stomach or skin infection, fever, etc.

Have a healthy and safe monsoon! These lifestyle tips can keep you healthy and safe during monsoons. Instead of binging on fast and oily foods, make these nutritional energy-giving foods a part of your lifestyle. Also, pay attention to good hygiene.

Conclusion

The monsoon season can increase the risk of infections, digestive issues, and seasonal illnesses due to high humidity, contaminated food and water, and changes in the environment. However, making mindful dietary choices and maintaining proper hygiene can go a long way in supporting overall health during this time. Including freshly cooked, nutrient-rich foods such as soups, probiotics, herbal teas, seasonal fruits, and nuts10 may help support immunity and digestion, while limiting oily, stale, and unhygienic foods may reduce the risk of stomach-related problems.

Also Read: What Is Hantavirus? Symptoms, Causes, & Effective Prevention

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Which food can we eat in the monsoon?

You can include warm, freshly cooked, and light foods such as:
Steamed rice, khichdi, soups, and porridges
Seasonal fruits like pomegranate, apples, pears, and bananas.
Herbal teas and warm water6
Cooked vegetables instead of raw salads
Foods rich in vitamin C and antioxidants
Probiotic foods8 in moderation if tolerated well
Spices such as ginger11, turmeric, black pepper, cumin, and garlic may also help support digestion and immunity.

What to avoid eating in the monsoon?

It is generally recommended to avoid:
Street food and uncovered foods
Raw leafy vegetables and salads that may carry germs
Cut fruits sold outside
Excess oily, fried, or spicy foods
Stale or refrigerated leftovers
Seafood from unreliable sources during heavy rains
These foods may increase the risk of stomach infections or digestive discomfort.

Why not eat curd in the monsoon?

Curd is not harmful for everyone during the monsoon, but some people may experience , bloating, or indigestion after consuming it in humid weather. If you are prone to cough, cold, sinus issues, or weak digestion, it may be better to consume curd in moderation and preferably during the daytime rather than at night.
Fresh homemade curd is generally safer than stale or improperly stored curd

Should we eat cucumbers in the monsoon?

Cucumber can be eaten during the monsoon if it is washed properly and consumed fresh. However, because it contains high water content and is usually eaten raw, it may sometimes increase the risk of stomach infections if hygiene is poor. People with sensitive digestion may prefer lightly cooked vegetables instead of raw cucumber during this season

Why not eat chicken in the monsoon?

Chicken itself is not unhealthy during the monsoon if it is fresh, hygienically handled, and thoroughly cooked. However, improperly stored or undercooked chicken may carry bacteria that can cause food poisoning. During the rainy season, food spoilage may happen faster due to humidity, so extra care with meat hygiene and cooking is important.
Avoid raw, half-cooked, or roadside meat preparations.

How can we improve digestion during the monsoon?

You can support digestion during the monsoon by:
Eating freshly cooked meals
Drinking enough clean, boiled, or filtered water
Avoiding overeating
Including ginger11, cumin, ajwain, and turmeric in meals
Limiting oily and processed foods
Eating at regular times
Staying physically active with light exercise or walking
If digestive symptoms such as severe diarrhea, vomiting, fever, or persistent stomach pain occur, medical attention may be needed.

References

  1. World Health Organization. Food safety [Internet]. Geneva: WHO; 2024 Oct 4 [cited 2026 May 13]. Available from: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/food-safety
  2. Singh R, Rawal K, Khewal K. Indigenous food system during monsoon in the context of India. Int J Innov Sci Res Technol [Internet]. 2024 Sep;9(9):2456-69 [cited 2026 May 13]. Available from: https://www.ijisrt.com/assets/upload/files/IJISRT24SEP1331.pdf
  3. Down To Earth. Jamun: A healthy way to welcome the monsoon rains [Internet]. New Delhi: Down To Earth; 2022 Jul 25 [cited 2026 May 13]. Available from: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/health/jamun-a-healthy-way-to-welcome-the-monsoon-rains-83919
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