The monsoon season is delightful for kids, with the rain cleansing the soil and bringing new life. However, the season is also prone to diseases such as dengue, malaria, typhoid, viral hepatitis, and leptospirosis. It is essential to take necessary precautions to keep your child safe and healthy during the rainy season. One way to do this is to ensure that your child eats a nutritious diet that boosts their immune system.
In this blog, we will discuss the foods that kids should eat and avoid during the rainy season.
Foods Kids Should Eat During the Rainy Season
- Lukewarm Water
Drinking enough water, especially lukewarm water, is vital for staying hydrated during the monsoon season. It can also help fight illnesses and ailments that are widespread during the rainy season.
- Lentils and Pulses
Lentils and pulses are an excellent source of protein and energy. They can be served as a delicious appetizer or a low-carb, high-protein supper during the rainy season. Daal, in particular, is beneficial for your child's health and can help them fight seasonal infections.
- Turmeric Milk
Turmeric milk is a healthy immune booster with natural antibacterial and antibiotic properties, making it beneficial during a cough or fever. It's also known for helping to keep blood sugar levels in check. Drinking a glass of milk with turmeric and honey can help prevent monsoon infections.
- Pomegranate
Pomegranate is high in vitamins, particularly vitamin C, which boosts your immune system and aids in the fight against numerous ailments. It also ensures that your child’s body's protein is properly processed and that their digestive system remains healthy and clean.
- Beetroot
Beetroot is high in vitamins and minerals, including potassium, fiber, and folic acid, which aid in the detoxification of your child’s body. Drinking a glass of beetroot juice or eating salads every day during the monsoon can boost your child’s stamina and help them stay healthy.
- Pears
Pears are an immunity-boosting food that is high in fiber, minerals like copper, vitamin C, and vitamin B12. They also act as a natural antipyretic, helping to cool the body and cure fever.
- Papaya
Papaya is high in fiber, vitamin C, and the enzyme papain, which aids digestion and increases immunity.
- Jamuns
Jamuns are high in iron, folate, potassium, and vitamins, which aid in the treatment of ailments and stomach issues that are common issues in some children during the rainy season.
- Kadha (Herbal Drink)
Boiling some herbs in water and then offering it to your child can help them fight off any seasonal illnesses. Cinnamon, fenugreek, cumin, peppercorn, ginger, and tulsi are some of the spices to use.
- Other Herbal Teas
Herbal, ginger, mint, and lemon teas aid digestion and assist in keeping your sinuses free by removing congestion. Lemon tea helps to keep your immune system strong.
- Veggie’s Soup or Chicken Soup
Hot soups with veggies are easy to digest and help keep your child healthy during the monsoon season. Chicken soup can help ward against the flu while also acting as an antidote to joint problems brought on by the cold weather.
- Other Vitamin C-rich Fruits
Vitamin C-rich fruits like gooseberry, guava, and lemon might assist in boosting your child's immune system and relieving skin aches.
- Karela (Bitter Gourd)
Bitter gourds are high in antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties, which can help your child fight off infections and boost their immunity.
Foods to Avoid During Monsoon Season for Kids
Apart from foods that boost your child's immunity, there are certain foods that you should avoid during the rainy season to prevent infections and illnesses. These include:
- Street Food
Street food may look appealing, but it is a breeding ground for bacteria and germs. During the monsoon season, street vendors are often seen selling hot, fried foods like pakoras, samosas, bhajiyas, etc. These foods are usually cooked in unhygienic conditions, and consuming them can cause a variety of illnesses.
- Cut Fruits and Vegetables
Cut fruits and vegetables should be avoided since they may have been left exposed to germs and bacteria that flourish during the monsoon season. Consuming contaminated fruits and vegetables may cause food poisoning.
- Seafood
Seafood is best avoided during the monsoon season, especially shellfish. Due to the damp and humid climate, it is difficult to keep seafood fresh during this time, and it may contain harmful bacteria and viruses.
- Fizzy Drinks and Aerated Beverages
Carbonated beverages should be avoided since they can dehydrate your child's body, making them more susceptible to diseases. Replace these drinks with fresh juices and water.
- Unpasteurized Dairy Products
Unpasteurized milk and dairy products should be avoided because they can contain harmful bacteria that may cause food poisoning.
- Spicy and Oily Foods
Spicy and oily foods should be avoided since they are tough to digest, and their consumption may cause digestive problems.
- Stale Food
Eating stale food is one of the most common causes of food poisoning during the rainy season. It is essential to consume fresh food that is prepared and served hot.
Conclusion
Rainy season is a time to be cautious about what we eat, particularly when it comes to children. Make sure to incorporate immune-boosting foods into your child's diet while avoiding the foods mentioned above. Additionally, always ensure that your child washes their hands regularly and drinks plenty of water to stay hydrated. With these precautions, your child can stay healthy and enjoy the monsoon season to the fullest.
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