Bid goodbye to scorching summers and say hello to the relieving monsoon season. However, the refreshing downpour of rains is accompanied by a slew of air-borne and water-borne diseases. Moreover, a poor immune system can be susceptible to many monsoon-related ailments, including food poisoning, diarrhea, allergies, cold, and flu. Therefore, while you enjoy the rains, stay healthy and ensure that the food you consume strikes the right balance between nutrition and immunity.

What you need to know:

6 immunity-boosting foods you should have during monsoon

6 immunity-boosting foods you should have during monsoon
Monsoon is when your digestive system, in particular, can fall prey to many diseases. Poor digestion results in cellular starvation, increasing fat storage and lowering metabolism. Hence, look at a list of foods you should mindfully consume in monsoon as they act as immunity boosters.

Turmeric

Turmeric has been considered the golden spice of the Indian kitchen for the longest time. Consuming turmeric (haldi) milk before going to bed or adding freshly grated ginger and turmeric paste to your meal can do wonders for your body. The potent active compound in turmeric, known as curcumin, contains antiviral, antiseptic, antimicrobial, and antibacterial properties. It is an antidote against cold and flu and can naturally boost your immune system. However, the changing weather and unhygienic conditions can make individuals vulnerable to infections. Therefore, drinking a turmeric and basil tonic (kadha) can increase your body’s natural defense system and help you overcome cold soreness in the throat.

Probiotics and fermented foods
Monsoon is a breeding ground for infections and allergies. The humid weather makes the digestive system sluggish. Gastric problems such as indigestion, acidity, and bloating are common. Therefore, for healthy gut health, include probiotic foods such as yogurt, curd, buttermilk, and pickled vegetables, which can boost your immunity. Probiotics are good bacteria that thrive inside your intestinal tract and fight against disease-causing germs.

Nuts and dry fruits
Immunity-boosting foods like walnuts, almonds, and dates contain riboflavin, niacin, and vitamin E, a powerhouse of antioxidants that keeps the cells healthy. It keeps the body warm and protects the body from virus attacks during monsoons.

Hot soups

Instead of snacking on a hot dish of pakoras during monsoons, you can indulge in a bowl of steamy hot soup to satiate your hunger. A flavorful bowl of chicken broth is perfect for keeping you hydrated. Monsoon is a peak time for individuals to catch a cold or flu. Soups can help de-clog your nasal passages by increasing the temperature of your airways.

Tea

A good old cup of tea can build your immunity during the rainy season. Herbal teas such as ginger or tulsi tea relieve chest congestion as they dilate the lung airways. You can also have the famous Indian masala chai with a concoction of clove, cardamom, cinnamon, and dried black pepper. These spices can fight against infections and prevent cold and flu. In addition, black pepper relieves you of nasal congestion and sinusitis during monsoon.

Garlic
Garlic is renowned for its medicinal properties. Regular consumption of garlic can increase the T-cells in the blood, which can help fight against viral infections like the common cold and cough. People are prone to falling ill during the rainy season. Eating raw garlic cloves can help build immunity.

During this monsoon season, consume healthy foods to stay immune from diseases. Actively participate in the Activ Living community and get more information on mindfulness and fitness.