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One of the biggest health mistakes most Indians make during the monsoon season is not to hydrate properly. And yet, the high humidity in most parts of India during rainy season would imply that our bodies are losing fluids and this needs to be replenished, right? When we don’t hydrate properly during monsoon, it causes a huge loss of energy and constant feelings of lethargy. What’s more, most of us also crave and indulge in plenty of fried monsoon snacks, which are also dehydrating. So, staying hydrated during monsoon to beat the humidity and stay energized is critical.
But why don’t we feel thirsty during monsoon? Understanding this can help us be more conscious about hydrating properly to tackle humidity. Here are all the reasons why. The monsoon season in India brings relief from the scorching heat of summer. The drop in temperature and the pleasant weather might lead people to believe that they don't need as much hydration as they did during the hot summer months. Also, the cool and damp weather during the monsoon can reduce the sensation of thirst.
These might be the obvious culprits for low hydration during monsoon, but there’s more. The monsoon season often brings heavy rainfall, making it challenging to engage in outdoor activities and exercise. With decreased physical activity levels, people may not feel the same level of thirst and may overlook the importance of hydrating adequately. During the monsoon, people tend to indulge in hot beverages like tea or coffee to keep themselves warm. While these beverages provide comfort, they may not contribute as effectively to hydration as plain water or other hydrating fluids.
So, despite the humidity and lethargy we all experience during monsoon, hydration remains a major issue. Wondering how to resolve this to beat humidity and stay energized? Here are the best monsoon diet tips for hydration.
Video Credit: YouTube/Meghna's Food Magic
Set Reminders
Set hydration alarms on your phone to remind yourself to drink plenty of fluids to replenish the lost water due to sweating. Opt for water, coconut water, buttermilk, and herbal teas to stay hydrated and maintain your energy levels.
Include Cooling Foods
Consume foods that have a cooling effect on the body, such as cucumbers, watermelons, muskmelons, mint, and coriander. These foods help regulate body temperature and keep you refreshed.
Eat Light Meals
Instead of heavy and greasy meals, opt for light and easily digestible options. Include more salads, soups, steamed vegetables, and lean proteins like fish and chicken in your diet.
Increase Fruit Intake
Include a variety of seasonal fruits and vegetables in your diet. They provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to boost your energy levels and support your overall health.
Consume Natural Diuretics
Foods like cucumber, watermelon, celery, and parsley act as natural diuretics, helping to flush out toxins from the body and prevent water retention, which can make you feel bloated and lethargic.
Limit Spicy & Fried Foods
Spicy and oily foods can increase body heat and make you feel uncomfortable in humid weather. Reduce the intake of fried foods, heavy curries, and excessive spices to avoid feeling sluggish.
Embrace Probiotics
Include probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, buttermilk, and fermented foods in your diet. Probiotics promote healthy digestion, support your gut health, and strengthen your immune system.
Avoid Sugary Drinks
Avoid sugary beverages, including sodas and packaged fruit juices, as they can dehydrate your body and lead to energy crashes. Instead, opt for natural fruit-infused water or homemade fresh fruit juices.
Emphasize Herbal Infusions
Incorporate herbal infusions like mint tea, lemongrass tea, or ginger tea into your routine. These beverages have a cooling effect on the body and help combat fatigue caused by humidity.
Balance Electrolytes
When you sweat, you lose essential electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and magnesium. Replenish them by consuming electrolyte-rich foods like bananas, coconut water, and homemade lemonade with a pinch of salt.
