Monsoon has arrived and so has our appetite for scrumptious snacks. It is often easy to guiltlessly indulge in a plate of bhajjia with masala chai but it is imperative to remember that monsoon is also the time when infections and diseases are at an all time high.
Don’t worry though, Spoon University brings to you a list of foods which are best avoided this rainy season so as to armour you against the illnesses.
1. Fried Food
Photo courtesy of Flickr
Rainy weather brings along temptation for fried food. Who doesn’t savour eating mouthwatering pakoras and samosas when it pours?
But the high humidity during this season slows down digestion, making us all the more prone to stomach upsets and bloating. Greasy foods during the monsoons could damage your body’s capacity to digest food and cause severe constipation, heartburn and acidity.
2. Mangoes
Photo by Alex Weiner
According to Ayurveda, mangoes have an inherent warming nature. They have the ability to aggravate the vata and kapha doshas which can potentially lead to a serious acne problem. So if you have any leftover mangoes from the summer bygone, we suggest you get creative! Some tips here.
3. Curd
Photo courtesy of Flickr
If you suffer from migraine or sinusitis, it’s time to take a break from curd this season. Sinusitis gets worse with cold food and curd could increase the cough in the body which will make you vulnerable to cold and headaches.
4. Leafy Greens
Photo by Laura Lim
All our lives we have been instructed about the importance of eating leafy vegetables. But during the monsoons, they are best avoided.
Leafy vegetables are grown in swamps and are not always stored hygienically before they reach the consumers. Also, insects have a special place in their heart for broccoli, cabbage and cauliflower, so it’s best to avoid their consumption during the rains.
5. Red Meat
Photo by Spoon University
Red meat tends to get heavy on the digestive system, so it’s better to avoid it. The best way to satisfy your meat cravings would be to resort to chicken stews and soups. Cold chicken salads are also a good option, as salads are high on fiber and thus keeps your digestion in check.
6. Milk
- Photo courtesy of Flickr
Well, this one’s a bummer. I know what you’re thinking – “How could this rich in nutrient superfood be bad for me?”
You see, humid weather could suck all the nutrients out of milk and make them perish faster than usual. Milk may go bad very soon and could do more harm than good. If necessary, it should be consumed only if it’s warm, with a dash of turmeric.
7. Paani Puri
Photo courtesy of Flickr
Not only is eating street food a big NO in this weather, it is also exactly the kind of thing that will leave you with a slower digestion system. Foods like paani puri are best avoided to prevent contracting diarrhea and other water borne diseases. Opt for healthier alternatives like corn chat or bhel – the ones made at home, of course.
8. White Rice
Photo by Kelda Baljon
Consumption of white rice results in issues like water retention, lower immunity and weak digestive systems. Just like everything else, opt for it’s brown, unpolished version and you’re good to go!
9. Fizzy Drinks
Photo courtesy of Flickr
Fizzy drinks reduce minerals in our body, which in turn leads to reduction of the enzyme activity. This is highly undesirable with an already weak digestive system. Keep a bottle of water handy or try your hand at the infinite varieties of teas that are there in the market.