Monsoon brings respite from the torrid heat of the Indian summer. However, the season also ushers in various diseases. One becomes more susceptible to waterborne diseases like cholera, typhoid, diarrhoea, and dysentery. One also becomes more vulnerable to diseases like colds, flu, viral fever, skin allergies, etc.
This season affects immunity as well as metabolism. These reasons make it extremely essential to stay healthy during the monsoon season. Mindful eating, hydration, and regular exercise go a long way in ensuring good health and immunity.
Water
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has named contaminated water as a critical public health issue in our country. The tap water at homes, is usually not fit for consumption. The same is the case for storage tanks. Ordinary water filters cannot remove all these impurities. Which is why, one should either drink boiled water or use a trusted water purifier. You should also ensure that water purifiers are serviced and cleaned regularly.
When you go out, it is advisable to avoid drinking water from unknown places. You should also try carrying your own water.
Hygiene
Be it at home or work, one needs to make sure one’s surroundings are clean. Due to factors like waterlogging, there is a rise in the number of mosquitoes, that can cause life-threatening diseases. There are also higher chances of water contamination. This increases the possibility of transmission of communicable diseases.
To prevent mosquito breeding, you need to ensure you don’t allow water to stagnate in your surroundings. You can use mosquito repellents on exposed body parts or wear full-sleeved clothes.
You also need to ensure that you wash your hands regularly, especially if you have been out. One should not touch one’s eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands. You need to ensure, that if you get drenched in the rain, you bathe and dry your hair immediately. You should also make sure to avoid wearing damp clothes and shoes.
Food
Food is another factor that needs to be taken utmost care of. One of the easiest ways to do so is by eating home-cooked food. Fast food, junk food, juice, and pre-cut fruits or vegetables from roadside stalls should be avoided. Raw vegetables and fruits should be cleaned thoroughly. One should also ensure that food is fresh and properly cooked.
Eating seasonal fruits and citrus fruits is a great way to boost immunity. Fruits like apple, guava, banana, papaya, plums, can be consumed.
Eating a protein-rich diet is also a great way to boost immunity and build muscles. Dals, chicken, eggs, curd, paneer, etc are rich sources of protein.
Adding garlic, green tea, ginger, turmeric, nuts, and green leafy vegetables to one’s diet is also a great way to improve immunity.
Regular Exercise:
Rains can disrupt regular routines. Jogging tracks may get inundated with rainwater, or heavy rains may prevent you from visiting your favorite gym.Moreover, the current pandemic has brought everything to a standstill. With gyms shut, and social distancing the need of the hour, getting your daily dose of exercise just got a bit complicated.
However, this should not interfere with you remaining fit. It is even more essential to exercise now. You can do some light exercise, or yoga and stretching, at home itself. Simple exercises like squats, push-ups, and lunges work wonders. Exercise also helps boost immunity, which is especially useful during the rains.
One should try to follow these simple steps to remain healthy during the rains.
