7 commandments to stay healthy during the monsoon season

The monsoon season brings us life and energy, apart from being the much-needed relief from the scorching heat. While everything during the rain feels refreshing, let’s not forget that the heavy rains are serve as a breeding ground for mosquitoes. The humid environment all around leads to rapid spread of microbe-borne diseases such as malaria, dengue, flu, chikungunya, among other common health conditions like cough and cough, all of them posing a threat to your health.

So, here are 7 tips on how to stay healthy during monsoon:

1. Drink clean water

Getting stomach problems during the rainy season is due to contaminated water and there are high chances of water resources being dirty in the rains. So, in order to avoid any infection, the safest way is to drink clean water from the filter at your home and always boil drinking water before using. In case of travel, try and carry your own water bottle or just use sealed, packaged water.

2. Load up on probiotics and fresh veggies

It is advisable that you keep your gut flora happy at all times, especially during the monsoon season. Amp up your intake of sufficient probiotics like curd, and yogurt as they will enhance the healthy levels of good gut bacteria. Do not eat stale food as it may attract infection-causing germs, include fresh vegetables in your diet for essential nutrients, and lastly wash the vegetables well before eating them. Also, avoid raw foods as much as possible.

3. Avoid street food

The food you eat outside is mostly spicy, junk food which can lead to bloating, acidity and indigestion. Also, you do not really know what goes inside the street food, be it the vegetables or the water as both are constantly exposed to humidity and can be contaminated. Such food can lead to various infections ranging from typhoid to cholera.

Also, read: 5 habits for monsoon skincare to bid adieu to oily skin and acne

4. Avoid rain dance

While you may be tempted to get that rain shower, you can be exposed to the pollutants and dirt that can get trapped on skin and hair. Even if you decide to get drenched, take a warm bath soon after.

5. Binge on immunity-boosting fruits

Increase your intake of vitamin C rich fruits like oranges, mosambi and lemon as it is the easiest way to boost immunity and fight infection. The more fruits you have, there are more chances of you getting the right amount of vitamins and minerals that are essential for you to stay healthy.

6. Use insect repellents

Do not be around contained rain water as it can be a breeding ground for mosquitoes that can cause several life-threatening diseases such as malaria and dengue. Instead, use insect repellents, mosquito nets, and make sure to always wear full sleeve clothes when you step out.

7. Prioritize your health

Last but not the least, do not ignore your health. Several serious diseases might have symptoms like fever, cold, joint and muscle pain. Make sure to confirm the diagnosis with a lab test and take care of your health as suggested by a doctor.