During the monsoon, humidity and moisture in the environment increase bacterial and fungal growth, which can easily contaminate food. Our digestive system also becomes more sensitive during this time. Here are 5 things you should avoid eating during monsoon to protect your stomach and overall health:
🌧️ 1. Leafy Green Vegetables
Why to avoid:
Leafy greens like spinach, methi, and coriander attract a lot of dirt and bacteria during monsoon due to mud and moisture. Even repeated washing may not make them completely safe. They may cause diarrhea, stomach infection, or food poisoning.
Tip: If you must eat them, cook them thoroughly and avoid raw consumption like salads.
🌧️ 2. Street Food (Especially Chaat, Golgappa, Samosa)
Why to avoid:
Street vendors often don’t maintain proper hygiene. Water used in chaat or golgappa can be contaminated, leading to cholera, typhoid, or gastroenteritis.
Tip: Completely avoid roadside food during monsoon. If cravings hit, prepare it at home with boiled water and fresh ingredients.
🌧️ 3. Fried and Oily Foods
Why to avoid:
Though pakoras and bhajiyas are tempting in the rain, they are hard to digest due to the humidity weakening our digestive fire (Agni). Excess oil and heaviness can lead to bloating, indigestion, and acidity.
Tip: If you still want to enjoy them, use less oil and accompany them with digestive chutneys like mint or ginger.
🌧️ 4. Seafood and Non-Veg Items
Why to avoid:
Monsoon is the breeding season for fish and other seafood. They are often contaminated or stale in this season, leading to food poisoning, stomach cramps, or infections.
Tip: Prefer fresh, home-cooked vegetarian food during this time. If eating non-veg, make sure it’s freshly sourced and well-cooked.
🌧️ 5. Cut Fruits from Outside
Why to avoid:
Cut fruits sold outside are often exposed to flies and germs. Moisture and heat allow quick fermentation and bacterial growth, which can lead to vomiting, loose motions, or stomach infection.
Tip: Always eat freshly cut fruits at home. Wash them properly and avoid keeping them for long.
✅ Final Advice:
Monsoon demands extra care in food choices. Always prefer warm, fresh, home-cooked meals and drink boiled or filtered water. Keep your gut strong with probiotics like curd and avoid overeating.
