The rains are here and we as much as they are a blessing from God, they can also cause some very annoying sicknesses. Runny nose, cough, and the occasional fever.
Mama's Dish is all about eating your way to a healthy life so I have decided to put together some things that you can do in terms of food and eating that can help you stay warm and healthy during the rainy season.
Diet/eating suggestions
~ Avoid heavy, salty food as it promotes water retention and bloating. It is better to have medium to low salt food.
~ Eat light foods like vegetables, fruits, cereals etc. Avoid too much of meat or fish.
~ Avoid fried foods as they decrease the digestive efficiency.
~ Eat foods which are drying in nature, the most popular being corn, chickpea, or oats. Eating watery foods like watermelon, creates swelling in the body.
~ Eat lots of citrus fruits or food rich in vitamin C such as chilli/bell peppers, okra, onions, bananas, etc. They help boost immunity.
~ Maintain the general hygiene while eating out and try to avoid roadside vendors. The rains make places to get messy or muddy and increases the risk of picking up germs.
~ Eat lots of vegetable soups which are full of micro-nutrients that help combat infection. Be sure to thoroughly wash all green vegetables thoroughly as a lot of worms and insects are hidden in the leafy vegetables.
~ Add ginger, garlic, and turmeric in your food to improve your immunity.
~ Consume a lot of bitter vegetables and bitter herbs, as they prevent infection.
~ And of course, don't hesistate to enjoy a hot cup of tea/coffee/hot chocolate or a bowl of pepper soup to warm up your insides. :D
Sources:
http://www.compassnewspaper.org/index.php/weekend/saturday/1557-diet-for-rainy-season