Why Monsoon Requires Diet Reset
As humidity rises during the monsoon months (Chaturmas), our digestion slows and vulnerability to infections increases. Nutritionist Rujuta Diwekar emphasizes the importance of detoxification and mindful eating to maintain gut health and immunity 2.
Weekly Essentials: Eat 2–3 Times
To stay nourished, include these foods regularly:
- Boiled peanuts – rich in proteins and easy on digestion.
- Sprouted pulses (beans, dals) – packed with nutrients.
- Seasonal vegetables: corn, cucumber, pumpkin, root veggies like arbi and suran 3.
Week‑Long Variety: Once a Week
Inject diversity with millets and wild greens:
- Rajgira and kuttu (amaranth and buckwheat) – gluten-free, fiber-rich grains.
- Wild veg like ambadi (gongura) and alu (colocasia) – seasonal, nutrient-dense 4.
Monthly Treats: Once a Month
Indulge mindfully in steamed local specialties:
- Patoli, modak, bafla, and siddu – traditional yet healthy.
- Special bhajis made from ghosala, mayalu, ajwain.
- Wild mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and lingdi – natural foraged foods 5.
Three Simple Monsoon Recipes
Abi Chu Kaap (Spiced Arbi)
Pressure‑cook arbi for 2–3 whistles, peel, slice, coat with chili and turmeric blend, rest, season, and lightly pan-fry.
Ambadi Chi Bhaaji
Boil ambadi leaves with jowar/rice, tur dal, and peanuts. Temper with rai, hing, haldi, chili; mix in jaggery and coconut for an earthy, tangy dish 6.
Steamed Modak
Make rice‑flour dough, fill with jaggery–coconut–ghee mix spiced with nutmeg and cardamom, mold, and steam 15–20 mins 7.
Immunity Boost: Amla‑Turmeric Juice
Combine amla and turmeric juice to fortify immunity, aid digestion, detoxify the liver, and promote skin health — particularly effective during humid, infection-prone weather 8.
Mindful Monsoon Eating
Nutritionists advise steering clear of raw veggies, unpasteurized dairy, street foods, and illicit meats during monsoon to avoid contamination. Staying hydrated with warm herbal drinks and maintaining digestive heat are key 9.
Trivia & Quiz Facts
- Chaturmas: Four-month monsoon period in Hindu tradition with seasonal dietary guidance.
- Rajgira & kuttu: Ancient grains favored during fasting, rich in fiber and gluten-free.
- Modak: Traditional steamed sweet linked to festival rituals like Ganesh Chaturthi.
- Turmeric & amla: These Ayurvedic staples offer potent anti-inflammatory and immune-supportive benefits.
Conclusion: A Balanced, Seasonal Approach
Monsoon is a time to recalibrate eating habits—adopt detoxing, nutritious foods, and simple traditional recipes. This expert-backed guide helps you savor the rainy season with wellness in mind.
Source: The Times Of India