Monsoon in India brings with itself the promise of soft drizzles, cool breezy monsoon winds, new life and
energies to refresh you. It provides that much-needed relief to the scorching land and an escape for all
of us from the heat and humidity of summer. However, rains also mean water-logging, a breeding
ground for mosquitoes, jumping over dirty muddy puddles, constant seasonal infections as well as
microbe-borne diseases. In addition, the humid environment also causes chronic skin conditions such as
acne, eczema and psoriasis. With the mixed feelings it evokes in all of us, we always have a love-hate
relationship with the monsoons. But that shouldn’t stop you from enjoying walks in the rain, diving into
puddles and relishing freshly cut fruits on the streets. So here are some simple tips to stay healthy
during the rainy season so you can enjoy it to the fullest with your loved ones.

Tips to Stay Healthy:

Eat a lot of vegetables:

Always prefer clean, freshly cooked food if you’re eating outdoors. During the monsoons, it is crucial to
thoroughly scrub your fruits and vegetables under running water as germs tend to live on the skins of
fruits and vegetables. Avoid eating raw vegetables or fruits and salads from street vendors, as they may
contain bacteria and viruses that can cause severe food poisoning, stomach infections, or diarrhoea.
Your healthiest options are boiled and steamed veggies that are high in proteins, fibre, and other
nutrients.

Drink safe water:

We all drink a little less water during the rainy season, but even if we don’t feel thirsty, our body needs
to be hydrated in order to remain healthy. But, drinking water that is even mildly contaminated can
cause serious health problems such as jaundice and typhoid. Therefore, make sure to drink clean and
purified water during the monsoons. Whether you’re at home or outside, boil your drinking water or
carry a bottle of water to be on the safe side.

Avoid junk food:

The rainy season can make you crave hot and spicy street foods, freshly cut fruits, and other kinds of
food items. However, street food should be strictly avoided as roadside vendors use harmful ingredients
and follow poor standards of hygiene which can lead to various food-borne diseases. The longer the
food items are exposed in the open air, the higher they are likely to become home to harmful
microorganisms. So think twice before eating junk food during the monsoons.

Stay away from mosquitoes:

One of the worst problems we face in the monsoon is the breeding of mosquitoes. During the rainy
season, water tends to get collected on the streets, lawns, terraces, etc. These spots become the
breeding grounds for mosquitoes that carry the risk of serious diseases such as dengue and malaria.
However, fear not! Precautions can be taken to steer clear of these nasty little insects. Ensure there is
no open water stored and it is always in covered pots and vessels. Screen your windows, keep your
surroundings clean, and use mosquito repellents whenever required.

Increase your probiotic intake:

Probiotics are healthy microorganisms that support your gut health and make your digestive system
stronger enabling nutrition absorption as well. Consume more probiotic foods like yogurt, buttermilk,
and homemade pickles. It will make your digestive system healthier and also build your strength against
any potential stomach infections.

Keep your feet dry:

It is impossible to go to work and come back with clean and dry shoes during the monsoons. So make
sure to dry your feet whenever they get wet and also avoid wearing wet socks or wet shoes. The best
way to avoid fungal infections is to prevent the accumulation of sweat and moisture in skin folds. Wear
a dry pair of shoes or opt for special rubber shoes.

Keep a safe distance from sick people:

In the rainy season, a lot of people get infected with the flu or common cold, so you have to be cautious.
Keep a distance from visibly sick people while travelling to public places. The dust and respiratory
particles can easily affect your system. Hence, wear a mask or take other necessary precautions.

Exercise regularly:

Many people use the rain as an excuse not to exercise. But, don’t let the rain wash away your exercise
routine, because it is most needed in the monsoon season. Exercising not only helps you lose weight and
stay in shape, but also strengthens your immune system. So fix a regular indoor workout regime and
follow it diligently.
The monsoon is a beautiful and enchanting season that gives life to flora and fauna and lifts our spirits,
but it also makes our health vulnerable. With these simple tips to stay healthy during the rainy season,
you can enjoy it without worrying about your health. Try not to ignore minor health symptoms; you can
speak to a doctor at Shree Mahavir Jain Hospital, for further assistance.