During the monsoon season, boosting immunity is crucial due to increased humidity and infection risks. Hence, it is essential to keep your health in check and keep infections at bay. We got in touch with a health expert who shares tips to keep in mind for staying healthy during heavy showers. Read on.
As the monsoon season brings much-needed rain and respite from the heat, it also brings in a higher risk of infections and health issues. The increase in humidity and damp conditions can weaken your immune system, making you more prone to illnesses such as colds, flu, and respiratory infections. To safeguard your health during this season, it’s crucial to adopt strategies that strengthen your immune system and enhance overall well-being. We got in touch with Dr Rakesh Gupta, Senior Consultant, Internal Medicine, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals who shares tips to boost your immune system and enjoy rainy days.
Tips To Boost Immunity During Monsoon
1. Stay Hydrated: While it may not be hot outside, your body still needs plenty of fluids. Drink at least 8-10 glasses of water daily. Warm herbal teas can also help boost immunity and provide comfort on chilly days.
2. Eat a rainbow diet: Include a variety of colourful fruits and vegetables in your diet. These are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support your immune system. Focus on seasonal produce like jamuns, pears, and pomegranates.
3. Protein power: Ensure you’re getting enough protein from sources like lean meats, fish, eggs, legumes, and dairy. Protein is crucial for building and repairing body tissues, including those involved in immune function.
4. Add spices to your diet: Indian spices like turmeric, ginger, garlic, and black pepper have natural antimicrobial properties. Incorporate these into your cooking to add flavour and boost your body’s defences.
5. Probiotics for gut health: A significant portion of your immune system resides in your gut. Consume probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, buttermilk, and fermented vegetables to maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria.
6. Vitamin C and zinc: These nutrients are known as immune boosters. Citrus fruits, berries, bell peppers, and leafy greens are excellent sources of vitamin C. For zinc, include nuts, seeds, whole grains, and lean meats in your diet.
7. Stay active: Regular moderate exercise can strengthen your immune system. Even on rainy days, find ways to stay active indoors with yoga, dancing, or home workouts.
8. Quality sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night. Your body repairs and regenerates during sleep, which is crucial for maintaining a strong immune system.
9. Manage stress: Chronic stress can weaken your immune system. Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or engaging in hobbies to keep stress levels in check.
10. Hygiene matters: Wash your hands frequently, especially before meals and after being in public spaces. Keep your surroundings clean and dry to prevent the growth of mould and bacteria.
11. Avoid standing water: Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water, which is abundant during monsoons. Use mosquito repellents and nets, and ensure there’s no standing water around your home.
12. Dress appropriately: Wear clean, dry clothes and change out wet clothes promptly to avoid fungal infections. Don’t forget to keep your feet dry to prevent athlete’s feet.
13. Boost vitamin D: With less sunlight during monsoons, your vitamin D levels may drop. Consider spending some time in the sun when it’s out, or talk to your doctor about supplements.
14. Say no to street food: As tempting as it may be, avoid consuming street food during monsoons. The risk of contamination is higher due to water-logging and humidity.
