Who doesn’t love delicious food? It provides our bodies with proper nourishment and energy, supplying essential nutrition and minerals. However, a common health issue many of us face is food poisoning. During the monsoon season, high humidity and damp conditions create an ideal environment for bacteria and other pathogens to thrive, contaminating food and water. Consuming adulterated or stale food can lead to discomfort and stomach infections. Symptoms of food poisoning include stomach pain, nausea, inflammation, bloating, and diarrhea.
If you frequently suffer from food-borne illnesses, adopting certain healthy habits is crucial. Here are some precautions to help prevent food poisoning during the monsoon season.
Monsoon Health Care Tips to Prevent Food Poisoning
- Wash Food Thoroughly: Always wash vegetables, rice, or pulses with water before cooking to remove dust particles and bacteria. Skipping this step can lead to consuming contaminated food that may cause food poisoning.
- Be Mindful of Dairy Products: Check the expiry dates and ensure dairy products are stored properly in the refrigerator. Opt for pasteurized milk and dairy products to reduce the risk of bacterial contamination.
- Store Cooked Food in the Refrigerator: Unlike pantry staples, cooked food should not be stored at room temperature, as it can spoil quickly. Store cooked food and vegetables in the refrigerator to prevent spoilage.
- Keep Your Hands Clean: Sanitize your hands, especially when cooking, serving, or eating food. Hygiene is directly related to health, so washing your hands before eating is essential to avoid transferring germs to your food.
- Consume Freshly Cooked Food: While leftovers are convenient, they are more prone to bacterial growth. If you must store leftovers, refrigerate them properly and reheat them thoroughly before eating. Additionally, it is best to avoid street food during the monsoon season, as hygiene practices may be unreliable.
By following these tips, you can reduce the risk of food poisoning and enjoy your meals safely during the monsoon season.
