In order to enjoy monsoons without succumbing to food poisoning, some healthy practices must be followed. Read below!

Who doesn't love to have a delicious meal? Food gives our body proper nutrition and energy to function properly. It provides essential nutrients and minerals to your body. However, one health problem many of us face when it comes to food is food poisoning. Especially during the rainy season, high humidity and damp conditions create the perfect environment for the growth of bacteria and other pathogens, contaminating food and water. At times, we eat adulterated and stale food which makes us really uncomfortable and can lead to infection in our stomach. Some of the symptoms of food poisoning include abdominal pain, nausea, burning, bloating and diarrhea.

If you often fall victim to such foodborne illnesses, it is imperative to adopt some healthy habits. Here is a list of precautions you should take to avoid food poisoning during monsoons.

Monsoon health care tips to avoid food poisoning

1. Wash food before cleaning: This is the most essential step to follow for cooking. It is important to wash vegetables, rice or pulses with water to remove dust particles or bacteria. If you don't follow this step, eating contaminated vegetables can lead to food poisoning.
2. Take Care of Dairy Products: Always check expiration dates and ensure that dairy products are properly stored in the refrigerator. Choose pasteurized milk and dairy products to reduce the risk of bacterial contamination.
3. Store cooked food in the refrigerator: Some foods are best stored in the kitchen pantry, but cooked food cannot be stored in the same way. Cooked or hot food is likely to spoil if kept at room temperature. Therefore, cooked food and vegetables must be kept in the refrigerator.
4. Keep your hands clean: Be sure to clean your hands, especially when you are cooking, serving or eating food. Hygiene should never be compromised, as it is directly related to our health. Therefore, it is important to wash your hands before eating to avoid contact with food.
5. Eat freshly cooked food: Although leftovers are convenient, they are more susceptible to bacterial growth. If you want to store leftovers, refrigerate them properly and reheat them before eating. Also, during the rainy season, it is better to avoid street food, as hygiene practices may not be reliable.