Monsoon Care: Top 10 Tips to Prevent Gastric Problems in Rainy Season

The monsoon season, with its refreshing showers and lush greenery, is a welcome change after the scorching summer. However, it also brings a host of health concerns, particularly those related to the digestive system. Gastric problems are common during this time due to the increased humidity, which promotes the growth of harmful bacteria and viruses. Moreover, the temptation to indulge in street food and difficulty maintaining food hygiene can worsen these issues. Here are some tips to help you prevent gastric problems and enjoy a healthy monsoon season.

1. Maintain Good Hygiene

Good hygiene is important for preventing gastric problems during the monsoon. Here are some hygiene practices to adopt:

• Wash your hands regularly: It is important to wash your hands regularly with soap and water before eating or preparing food. This simple habit can prevent the transmission of bacteria and viruses.
• Keep your kitchen clean: Ensure the cleanliness of your kitchen surfaces, utensils, and cooking appliances. This helps prevent food contamination.
• Store food properly: Use airtight containers to store food and prevent it from getting spoiled. Refrigerate perishable items immediately.

2. Drink Safe Water

Waterborne diseases are common during the monsoon. To avoid them:

• Boiling water: Boiling water effectively kills bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Ensure that you boil water for at least 5-10 minutes before drinking it.
• Use water purifiers: If boiling water is inconvenient, use a reliable one. These devices can filter out contaminants and provide safe drinking water.
• Avoid outside water: Do not drink water from roadside vendors or any other unverified sources. Always carry your water bottle when you step out.

3. Eat Fresh and Well-Cooked Food

Consuming fresh and well-cooked food is crucial in preventing gastric problems:

• Avoid raw foods: Raw foods, especially salads, can be a breeding ground for bacteria. It's safer to consume cooked vegetables and fruits.
• Cook thoroughly: Ensure that food, especially meat, is cooked thoroughly. Undercooked food can harbour harmful pathogens.
• Check expiry dates: Always check the expiry dates of packaged foods and avoid consuming anything past its date.

4. Be Cautious with Street Food

Street food is tempting, but it can be risky during the monsoon:

• Avoid fried foods: The oil used in street food stalls is often reused multiple times, making it a breeding ground for bacteria. Fried foods can also be heavy on the stomach.
• Opt for hygienic vendors: If you must indulge, choose vendors who maintain good hygiene standards. Make sure that the food is prepared in a clean environment.

5. Incorporate Probiotics into Your Diet

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that help maintain gut health:

• Yoghurt and buttermilk are excellent sources of probiotics. Including them in your diet can help maintain a healthy digestive system.
• Fermented foods: Foods like kimchi, sauerkraut, and pickles are rich in probiotics. Adding these to your diet plan can boost your gut health.

6. Stay Hydrated

Staying hydrated is essential for digestive health:

• Drink plenty of water: Ensure you drink at least 8-10 glasses of water daily. Staying hydrated helps the digestive system function smoothly.
• Include herbal teas: Herbal teas like ginger, peppermint, and fennel can aid digestion and prevent gastric issues. They also have anti-inflammatory properties.

7. Exercise Regularly

Regular physical activity is beneficial for promoting a well-functioning digestive system:

• Moderate exercise: Engage in moderate exercises like walking, jogging, or yoga. These activities can improve blood circulation and enhance digestive health.
• Avoid overexertion: While exercise is beneficial, avoid overexerting yourself, especially after meals. Overexertion can lead to digestive discomfort.

8. Manage Stress

Stress can adversely affect your digestive health:

• Practice relaxation techniques: Meditation, deep-breathing exercises, and progressive muscle relaxation techniques can help you manage stress.
• Maintain a positive outlook: Maintain a positive attitude and participate in activities you enjoy to help lower your stress levels.

9. Watch What You Eat

Certain foods can trigger gastric problems:

• Avoid spicy foods. They can irritate the stomach lining and lead to gastric issues. Opt for milder alternatives.
• Limit caffeine and alcohol: Excessive caffeine and alcohol consumption can disrupt the digestive system. Moderation is key.

10. Know When to Seek Medical Help

Despite all precautions, if you experience severe gastric problems, it's essential to seek medical advice:

• Persistent symptoms: If symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, or diarrhea persist, consult a healthcare professional.
• Follow medical advice: Stick to the prescribed treatment and follow any dietary recommendations from your healthcare provider.

Conclusion

The monsoon season requires extra care to prevent gastric problems. You can protect yourself from gastrointestinal issues by maintaining good hygiene, drinking safe water, eating well-cooked food, and adopting a healthy lifestyle. Add these tips to your everyday routine to enjoy the monsoon without health concerns. Stay safe and healthy!

FAQs

Why are gastric problems more common during the monsoon?

The monsoon season increases the risk of water and food contamination due to higher humidity and stagnant water, increasing bacteria and viruses that can cause gastrointestinal issues.

What foods should I avoid to prevent gastric problems during the monsoon?

Avoid street food, raw vegetables, and salads, as they may be washed with contaminated water. Also, avoid oily and spicy foods, which can worsen gastric issues.

How can I ensure the water I drink is safe during the monsoon?

Always drink boiled, filtered, or bottled water. Avoid consuming water from unreliable sources, and carry your water bottle when going out.

What are some safe dietary habits to adopt during the monsoon?

Eat freshly cooked meals, prefer home-cooked food, and incorporate easily digestible foods like soups, stews, and steamed vegetables into your diet. Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before consumption.

Are there any specific fruits and vegetables I should avoid during the monsoon?

Avoid leafy vegetables and fruits that cannot be peeled, as they are more prone to contamination. Opt for fruits like bananas, apples, and oranges that can be peeled.

How can I boost my immunity to prevent gastric problems during the monsoon?

Include immunity-boosting foods in your diet, such as ginger, garlic, turmeric, citrus fruits, and probiotics like yoghurt. Maintain good hydration and get adequate sleep and exercise.

What are some home remedies for minor gastric problems during the monsoon?

Consuming ginger tea, peppermint tea, or a warm water mixture of lemon and honey can help alleviate minor gastric issues. Avoid self-medication and consult a doctor if symptoms persist.

How important is personal hygiene in preventing gastric problems during the monsoon?

Personal hygiene is crucial. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, particularly before eating and after using the restroom. Also, keep your kitchen and utensils clean.

Can I consume dairy products during the monsoon?

It's safe to consume pasteurised dairy products. However, avoid consuming raw or unpasteurised dairy products, which may harbour harmful bacteria.

What should I do if I experience severe gastric problems during the monsoon?

In cases of severe symptoms like continuous nausea & vomiting, diarrhea, viral fever, or dehydration, it is important to seek immediate medical attention. Do not ignore severe symptoms, as they can lead to complications.