Sunday, 29 June 2014

Healthy Eating during the quintessential Indian Monsoon Season


In India, monsoons are much cherished and with the first rains comes an anticipation and a sense of excitement from one and all, to welcome in another phase of the calendar year. At the same time however, it is very important to keep cases of monsoon illnesses to a bare minimum, by ensuring clean food and water and a healthy diet regimen overall.

We list out foods ideal for the Indian monsoon season, and also throw in some pointers on what to avoid to maintain the healthy body you so deserve!

Soups


When you are staying indoors during the rains, a bowl of piping hot soup in a flavour of your choice can elevate your soul. It is however best to include vegetable soups in your diet. These will not only keep the cold at bay, it will also ensure that you get the day's nutrients and remain hydrated.

Tea


On a rainy evening, a cup of  masala or ginger mint tea is a perfect compliment to the sunset. If you love to be outdoors, go for a ride to soak in the rains and then stop at a roadside tea stall to have your share of cuppa. Try it out for biscuits to elevate it into a savoury snack! 

Veggie Sticks & Dip


Easy to make and great to have on a rainy day! Curl up with a book and savor your veggie sticks with a cheesy dip. Or better still pick up your favourite DVD and then enjoy the movie with your fill of sticks and tomato ketchup if you wish! 

Savouries:


Say no, to fried dangers like samosas and pakoras, but satiate your tastebud with deliciously healthy Adai Dosas, Rava dosas, Rava Idlis, Rice Idlis or Rice Methi idlis. These are perfectly healthy, and a great way to celebrate the monsoons. One can pick up Soulfull's instant mixes for each of the above, and spring a delicious surprise on the family when the showers hit us.

What to Avoid:

Avoid juices when it rains, especially from a street vendor. If you are absolutely craving for a natural juice, prepare it at home and consume immediately. Also shy away from salads and any such raw food in the monsoons. Any semi-cooked food can result in food infection and other health issues.