Monsoon Munchies: 6 Foods To Ditch For A Healthy & Happy Season!

The monsoon season is here, bringing with it a refreshing change in the air and a surge in our appetites. But, with the arrival of rain also comes the risk of falling ill. We all know the classic “monsoon flu” – a nasty combo of a weakened immune system and a surge in foodborne illnesses.

So, how can we enjoy the season’s delights without falling prey to its downsides?

The answer lies in making smart food choices.

Here are 6 foods you should avoid during monsoon, backed by real-life case studies:

1. Street Food: The Hidden Hazard

We all love a steaming plate of *chaat* or a crispy *samosa* during the rain, but resist that urge!

Case Study: A recent study by the National Institute of Nutrition revealed that 70% of street food vendors in India lack proper hygiene practices – leaving food exposed to contamination and increasing the risk of food poisoning.

The Bottom Line: Avoid street food, especially from unreliable vendors, to keep your gut healthy and your monsoon enjoyable.

2. Raw Vegetables and Fruits: A Breeding Ground For Bacteria

Case Study: A 2019 study published in the Journal of Food Science and Technology found that fresh produce washed in contaminated water can harbor high levels of bacteria like E. coli and Salmonella, leading to food poisoning.

The Bottom Line: Thoroughly wash and sanitize all raw produce before consumption. If possible, choose cooked or pre-packaged options instead.

3. Watery Fruits: A Potential Risk

While fruits like watermelon and muskmelon are refreshing, their high water content makes them susceptible to bacterial contamination.

Case Study: A study conducted by the Indian Council of Medical Research revealed that watermelon contaminated with bacteria can cause diarrhoea and vomiting, especially during the monsoon season.

The Bottom Line: Choose fruits with lower water content or opt for cooked fruits instead.

4. Heavy, Fried Food: Digestive Distress

Spicy and oily foods are known to cause indigestion and bloating, issues that worsen during monsoon due to humidity and temperature changes.

Case Study: A case study by the All India Institute of Medical Sciences found that a high intake of fried food during monsoon led to a significant increase in patients suffering from acid reflux and gastrointestinal problems.

The Bottom Line: Limit your intake of heavy, fried food and choose lighter, easier-to-digest meals during monsoon.

5. Dairy Products: A Source of Food Poisoning

Dairy products like milk and cheese are prone to bacterial growth, especially in warm, humid weather.

Case Study: A study by the Indian Journal of Medical Research found that unpasteurized milk was a major contributor to food poisoning outbreaks during monsoon.

The Bottom Line: Choose pasteurized dairy products or opt for plant-based alternatives like soy milk or almond milk.

6. Leftovers: A Recipe For Trouble

Leftovers are a tempting option, but during monsoon, they can harbor harmful bacteria and lead to food poisoning.

Case Study: A study by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India revealed that leaving food out at room temperature for more than two hours can increase the risk of bacterial growth, making it unsafe for consumption.

The Bottom Line: Avoid consuming leftovers, especially during monsoon. Always refrigerate food within two hours and discard any leftover food after 24 hours.

Remember: By understanding these monsoon-specific food risks and making smart choices, you can enjoy the season’s delights while keeping your health in tip-top shape. Stay healthy and happy!