When the scorching heat of summers is followed by the rejuvenating Monsoon showers, everyone is filled with relief. The cloudy sky, the downpour and lush greenery all around makes the season a beautiful time to enjoy. While the Monsoons bring the much needed relief from all the sweaty heat, they also bring along a host of health infections such as allergies, infections and indigestion. But there is no need to panic, with good care of diet and health; you will be able to tide through the monsoon. Here are some simple measures to adopt this rainy season: 1. Balanced Diet – As digestion during Monsoon is slow, it is advisable to eat slowly and only when hungry.

• Foods such as brown rice, oats, and barley are the best foods one could have in this monsoon.
• Drink only boiled and purified water to protect yourself from harmful germs.
• Also, adding a dash of Garlic to the curries and soups can also improve your body’s immunity.
• Have medium to low salt food and avoid heavy salty food as they are responsible for high blood pressure and water retention.
• People facing skin allergies should keep away from spicy food as spicy foods tend to raise body temperature and stimulate blood circulation which then might lead to allergies and skin irritation
• Have medium to low salt food and avoid heavy salty food as they are responsible for high blood pressure and water retention.

2. Cleanliness and Hygiene – Before consuming fruits and vegetables, make sure to wash them thoroughly, especially leafy vegetables. Also, one must steam the leafy vegetables in order to kill the germs. Contaminated food might lead to illnesses such as jaundice. Eating freshly cooked food is recommended. Soups and stews are helpful, as they are light and nutritious, but filling. Try and eat cooked food instead of uncooked vegetables and salads, unless they are organic. 3.  Monsoon Ailments – Stagnant water is the breeding place for mosquitoes, which is why cases of Malaria are on a rise during this season. Draining out those flower vases and coolers which are not in use is the first step in controlling mosquitoes from breeding. Next, use mosquito nets, repellents and creams available in the market to protect yourself from mosquito bites. You can also use camphor or cloves from you kitchen counter to keep away insects such as flies and termites during monsoon. 4. Exercise – Showers outside may hamper your exercise routine, but it can easily be managed by performing simple stretches, sit ups, knee bends to flex muscles. One could also take up Yoga, which is yet another method of indoor exercise and is known to help improve respiratory problems. 5. Clothing and Footwear – Loose, cotton clothes are the best wear during Monsoons. Avoid walking barefoot and do not wear wet shoes as it might lead to fungal infections and athlete’s foot. If you are Diabetic, these infections might affect your toes and nails, so you’ll have to take special care of your feet. 6. Eye Care – According to eye care specialists,Proper eye care should be a priority during Monsoons to avoid infections like conjunctivitis, stye, dry eyes and corneal ulcers which can lead to blindness. Here are a few precautions to take: Avoid touching your eyes with dirty hands.

•  If you (or someone around you) suspect you’ve got or are getting conjunctivitis, wash your eyes gently and use a cold compress. The best thing would be to see an eye care specialist doctor.
• If someone at home is down with conjunctivitis, wash your hands after administering drops.
• Avoid sharing your towel and other personal items with others in case of an infection
• Avoid eye make-up in case of an infection

And last but not the least; don’t forget to enjoy the Monsoon pours to the fullest!