Monsoons do signify the coming of cooler weather and bursts of cold breezes that are a much-needed respite from the blistering summer heat. Yet, monsoons also mean humidity in tropical climes, which leads to increased sweating and dehydration. As the body adjusts to the changing weather, it would be best if eating patterns switched gears to include foods that have hydrating properties. It is not enough to drink gallons of water to beat the humidity because that would simply lead to more bloating or flushing out of essential nutrients induced by frequent visits to the loo!
Instead, there are multiple food options for those unbearably humid days to ward off dampness, sluggishness, and a general feeling of being stuffed. Hydrating foods, including fruits and vegetables, contain tonnes of water mixed with nutrients that can be absorbed by the body to stay fresh and energetic even on the stickiest and muggiest days. Read on below for some hydrating foods that will add a bit of zest and life to the humid months:
Oranges
This citrusy fruit is rich in water content along with other nutritional properties such as antioxidants and flavonoids, which help reduce inflammation. Having this dose of vitamin C during the monsoons will not only increase hydration but also help flush toxins out of the body. The water and fibre in the orange quickly induce a feeling of satiety and keep overeating under control.
Cucumbers
Cucumbers are made almost entirely of water, so they are the perfect healthy and hydrating food choice to include in the diet during monsoons. Cucumbers are also low in calories and can be easily consumed in good amounts through salads and sandwiches. However, during monsoons, make sure to hand-pick them from the local greengrocer to get only the freshest produce.
Skim Milk
Milk is nutritious and a complete meal in itself. But skim milk or low-fat milk made nearly entirely out of water is a great hydrant too while being rich in calcium, vitamin A, and phosphorous. During monsoons, a great way to beat dehydration, especially following an exercise session, is to have low-fat milk. It restores electrolyte and protein content, helping the body replace the water it has sweated out.
Broths/Soups
A warm chicken broth or any water-based clear soup or stock is soothing for the soul and nourishing for the body. Clear broths also add a good amount of water to every day's hydration needs. Chicken broth, or paya soup, is rich in protein, low in calories, and extremely beneficial during monsoon months to heal colds, coughs, and other flu-related symptoms.
Zucchini
Just like cucumbers, zucchini is rich in water content and is a good source of vitamin C and fibre. Added to salads, stir-fries, or even made into a subzi, zucchini is a nutritious vegetable with a low calorific count. An interesting way to incorporate zucchini into a meal is to cut it into strips to make green noodles as an alternative to wheat or white flour pasta.
Cottage Cheese
Made almost entirely of protein, cottage cheese has a high amount of water content and other nutritious elements, including vitamin B12, riboflavin, and calcium, all of which help boost metabolism, especially in humid climes. Cottage cheese can be used as a spread, with fruit, or added to a warm salad during the rainy months.