Monsoon Superfoods

The monsoon season can bring in a series of serious ailments, such as viral flu, malaria, dengue leptospirosis, jaundice, cholera, diarrhea, seasonal flu, typhoid, and chikungunya. The best way to combat them is to load your body with immunity-boosting foods so your body is ready to fight these debilitating viruses and bacteria at all times.

WHAT IS A SUPERFOOD?

There is no exact definition of what makes a “superfood.” However, superfoods are considered to be nutrient powerhouses that provide large quantities of antioxidants, phytochemicals (chemicals in plants responsible for colors and smells), vitamins, and minerals. Most superfoods are plant-based, but some fish and dairy also make the cut.

Examples of popular superfoods include salmon, kale, açaí berries, kefir, and almonds, just to name a few. Since there is not a strict definition of superfoods, any food that is nutrient-dense is commonly put into this category.

BENEFITS OF SUPERFOODS

The high vitamin and mineral content found in superfoods can help your body ward off diseases and keep you healthier. Incorporated into a well-balanced diet, superfoods can promote heart health, weight loss, improve energy levels, and even reduce the effects of aging.

“The only precaution you need from the harshest of weather is a strong immunity”, -Shikha Mahajan.

Antioxidants may help prevent cancer, while healthy fats can reduce your risk of heart disease. Fiber can help prevent diabetes and digestive problems while phytochemicals have numerous health benefits including reducing your risk of developing cardiovascular diseases.

Superfoods are also known to protect your organs from toxins, help lower cholesterol, regulate metabolism, and reduce inflammation.

SUPERFOODS FOR THE MONSOON

There are dozens of superfoods available in supermarkets these days, however, the superfoods that combat rain need not be exotic or expensive. In fact, the foods that combat your local whether are ideally found in your local area.

Ginger- any list of superfoods is incomplete without a version of this superfood root. Add ginger to your teas to keep warm or to your juices to get the spicy taste with a super quick dose of anti-inflammation, anti-allergen, and immunity booster.

Turmeric- Yes, your mom was right when she forced that turmeric latte, aka Haldi wala doodh, on you. Sold as golden milk throughout the world today, it has proven to cure inflammation, allergies, infections, and much more. You can also add juice of raw turmeric to your fruit or vegetable juice.

Tulsi Leaves- The holy basil is not worshipped for no reason. It should be your first go-to whenever a viral infection comes up. Remember that there is no cure for viral flu in allopathy and this herb will fully cure you with no side effects within 3-5 days.

Garlic- another kitchen remedy, yet one of the world’s most potent superfoods. Anytime fever strikes, boil two pods of garlic in a cup of water and drink the kadhai. Fever will be gone within a day or two.

Amla- the humble amla has made a grand comeback in recent years. Have it as powder, juice, or even murabba. The vitamin c content in amla surpasses most other fruits.

Makhanas- also called lotus seeds, they are a popular snack and possess many health benefits. They are low in fat, high in protein, fiber, magnesium, zinc, iron, and potassium. They heal the stressed mind, cure insomnia, improve urination, and are anti-aging.

While this is a shortlist of superfoods, it should be remembered that many other foods like pumpkin, beetroots, yam, kale, spinach, yogurt, eggs, avocado, goat cheese, etc are all superfoods available all around us. Besides these adding a moringa, spirulina, goji berries and acai to your smoothies, etc, would give a quick boost to your health too.

 By: Janvi Aggarwal